Wed Jan 22 10:04:49 UTC 2025: ## Panama Rejects Trump’s Claim of Canal Ownership, Cites International Law
**Davos, Switzerland** – Panamanian officials have vehemently rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that the United States could reclaim the Panama Canal, calling the statement false and a violation of international law. Following Trump’s repeated claim that China is improperly influencing the canal’s operations and his threat to “take it back,” Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino reiterated Panama’s full sovereignty over the waterway.
Mulino, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, stated that the Panama Canal was never a gift or concession from the United States, but rather transferred to Panama on December 31, 1999, per previously agreed-upon treaties. He dismissed Trump’s comments as false and emphasized Panama’s unwavering claim to ownership.
Panama has formally complained to the United Nations, citing a UN Charter article prohibiting threats or use of force against another nation’s territorial integrity. China has also denied any interference in the canal’s affairs.
Despite the strong rejection, Mulino expressed a willingness to use the situation as an opportunity to address other bilateral concerns with the United States, including security issues and migration challenges along Panama’s border with Colombia. He stated that Panama remains undeterred by Trump’s pronouncements and will not be distracted from its national interests.
First Piper 