Reduce Chinese influence or face 'necessary measures': US State Secy Rubio to Panama
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Warns Panama About China's Influence on Panama Canal
In Panama City, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concerns over China's influence on the Panama Canal, labeling it "unacceptable." He warned that the US might take "necessary measures" if changes aren't made. Rubio discussed these issues with Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino and Foreign Minister Javier Martinez, conveying US President Donald Trump's worries.
According to State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, President Trump views the Chinese Communist Party's control over the canal as a threat. Rubio emphasized that without immediate changes, the US would act to protect its rights under the Treaty concerning the Permanent Neutrality and Operation of the Panama Canal.
This visit marks Rubio's first trip as the US top diplomat, focusing on Central America, including Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic, to advance Trump's agenda of prioritizing the region.
In his inaugural address, Trump claimed China is "operating" the Panama Canal and vowed to "take it back," citing unfair treatment. He highlighted the US's significant investment and sacrifices in building the canal.
In response, Panama President Mulino asserted that the canal would remain under Panamanian control, respecting its permanent neutrality, and no nation should interfere in Panama's affairs.
Doubts Revealed
US Secretary of State
The US Secretary of State is a high-ranking official in the United States government who deals with foreign countries and international relations. In this context, Marco Rubio is mentioned as the Secretary of State.
Marco Rubio
Marco Rubio is a politician from the United States. In this context, he is mentioned as the US Secretary of State, although in reality, he is a US Senator.
Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway in Panama that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. It is important for international trade because it allows ships to pass between the two oceans without going around South America.
China's Influence
China's influence refers to the power or impact that China might have over the Panama Canal. This could mean control or significant involvement in its operations, which concerns the US.
President Trump
President Trump refers to Donald Trump, who was the President of the United States from 2017 to 2021. In this context, he is concerned about China's influence over the Panama Canal.
Panama's President Mulino
Panama's President Mulino refers to a leader of Panama. However, in reality, the President of Panama during Trump's presidency was Juan Carlos Varela, not Mulino.
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