The Blubber

Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino reaffirmed Thursday that there will be no negotiations with the United States over ownership of the Panama Canal, emphasizing that he hopes U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s upcoming visit will focus on shared priorities such as migration and drug trafficking.

Rubio’s visit is significant for Panama, but it also comes amid renewed tensions, as U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly floated the idea of reclaiming the Panama Canal for the United States.

On his inauguration day, Trump claimed that U.S. ships were being “severely overcharged and not treated fairly in any way, shape, or form,” adding that “above all, China is operating the Panama Canal.” He had previously suggested that the U.S. could demand its return.

Mulino sought to downplay the controversy during his weekly press conference Thursday. He expressed a desire to clear up misconceptions about China’s involvement in the canal, pointing out that while a Hong Kong-based company operates ports at both ends, Panama retains full control of the canal itself. He also blamed a predecessor for establishing diplomatic relations with China.

“It’s impossible, I can’t negotiate,” Mulino said when asked about the possibility of returning the canal to U.S. control. “That is done. The canal belongs to Panama.”

The History of U.S. Involvement in the Panama Canal

The United States constructed the canal in the early 20th century to facilitate commercial and military transit between its coasts. Control of the waterway was formally transferred to Panama on December 31, 1999, under a treaty signed in 1977 by then-President Jimmy Carter.

Looking ahead to Rubio’s visit, Mulino said his main goal is to set aside distractions and focus on productive dialogue.

“The only thing I want is to clear all the garbage from the path, clean the table, and have an honest conversation with the United States about immigration, security, and the fight against drug trafficking,” he said.