Panama President Dismisses Trump's China Claims

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has categorically denied claims by President-elect Donald Trump regarding Chinese interference in the Panama Canal, labeling the assertions as 'nonsense'. Mulino emphasized that there are no Chinese soldiers or influence at the canal, asserting that Panama is open to investment from any interested parties without discrimination. He firmly stated, 'The canal is Panamanian and belongs to Panamanians,' rejecting any potential discussions about reducing tolls for U.S. vessels or ceding control back to the U.S. Trump had previously criticized the fees charged by Panama for shipping through the canal, suggesting that the U.S. should reclaim it if rates are not lowered. The controversy arises amidst concerns about China's growing investments in the region, which some see as a factor in U.S.-China competition over influence in Latin America.