Panama announced today that the United States recognized its national sovereignty over Washington’s harsh rhetoric, as the two countries have made a series of agreements that would enhance US military training in that country.
US Secretary of Defense Pitt Hegschez, on the first visit of the Pentagon to Panama for decades, said he considers the canal as a basic infrastructure that Panama should secure in cooperation with the US and not with China. “We help to take the Panama Canal back from the influence of Communist China,” he said in a press conference.
“China does not control it”
The Panama government has rejected US allegations that the canal is controlled by China.
Now and former US officials say Washington has reason to worry about China’s presence in Panama, because ports and other infrastructure controlled by Chinese companies could be used for espionage.
During the visit of Hegschez, the US and Panama have released joint announcements to deepen their security cooperation. But the English -speaking version of the agreement, released by the Pentagon, does not include a proposal in the Spanish -speaking announcement and talks about Panama’s “sovereignty” on the canal.
This proposal states: “In addition, Minister Hegsheth acknowledged Panama’s leadership and inalienable sovereignty over Panama Canal and neighboring areas.”
When asked if he recognizes Panama’s sovereignty, Hegsheth replied: “We certainly understand that the Panama Canal is in Panama and the protection of Panamani sovereignty from malicious influences is important. That is why when President Trump said we were taking back the Panama Canal from Chinese influence this includes the US cooperation with Panama. And we are grateful that they welcomed the US forces to Panama’s territory at an invitation to joint exercises. “
Panama Public Security Minister Frank Abrego said his country would not allow for permanent military bases. “Minister Hegsheth, at a meeting we had privately recognized Panama’s sovereignty over the canal,” he said.
