Rubio’s Decisive Victory in Panama: President Mulino Makes Quick Announcement on Canal

Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s first foreign trip ended with Panama’s leader announcing plans to leave China’s Belt and Road Initiative. This move may open the door for the United States to restore its influence over the Panama Canal.

Key Facts:

  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Panama on his first international trip.
  • President Donald Trump had warned Panama to reduce China’s role in the Panama Canal or face U.S. action.
  • Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino declared his government will not renew the 2017 Belt and Road agreement with China.
  • Trump believes China’s involvement might violate the canal’s neutrality treaty.
  • Both nations discussed reducing illegal immigration and promoting fair competition for U.S. businesses.

The Rest of The Story:

Mulino said that he plans to drop Panama’s participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative and possibly end the arrangement sooner than its scheduled expiration.

According to statements from the State Department, Rubio pressed Mulino to reconsider China’s presence in the canal zone, citing concerns that it might go against the neutrality treaty established when the United States transferred the canal to Panama in 1999.

Though Mulino insisted there was no direct threat of American military action, he confirmed that Rubio delivered a strong warning on behalf of President Trump.

The United States wants control of the canal to remain with Panama, free from what it sees as China’s unfair influence.

Both leaders also discussed improving security, curbing illegal migration through the Darien Gap, and backing a free Venezuela.

Commentary:

This trip signals a decisive start for Rubio in his new role as Secretary of State. By pressing Panama’s leader to rethink ties with China, he set a clear tone that the United States wants to safeguard its interests in the region.

The swift response from President Mulino, agreeing to leave the Belt and Road Initiative, shows Panama’s eagerness to strengthen its partnership with the United States.

His praise for future cooperation speaks to the shared goals of economic growth and stability. Many see this step as a sign of renewed engagement between the two countries.

Trump’s firm approach, combined with Rubio’s diplomatic delivery, appears to have encouraged Panama to pivot away from China with minimal delay.

The success of this meeting reflects the administration’s commitment to assert U.S. interests.

It also hints at deeper plans to ensure the Panama Canal remains a free and open trade route without the influence of America’s chief global rival.

The Bottom Line:

Rubio’s first overseas trip ended in a major foreign policy victory, with Panama ditching China’s Belt and Road program.

The stage is set for a closer U.S.–Panama relationship centered on a secure, American-friendly canal.

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