The Panama Canal serves as a significant territorial landmark.
Panama's history is deeply intertwined with the United States, primarily due to the construction of the Panama Canal. This waterway, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, has significant economic and strategic importance. Recently, President Trump has expressed concerns about high fees for American ships and has suggested a potential return of the canal.
Historian Christian Cwik, in an podcast episode, comments on Trump's stance, stating, "Now we understand the slogan 'Make America great again' a bit better." During the peak of its significance, the canal was essential for the US East Coast's development and remains crucial for internal goods traffic. It is also a vital connection for container ships traveling between the US East Coast and Asia.
Cwik muses on the possibility of a colonial imperial act by Trump, given the canal's magnitude of profit. However, this speculation has not been welcomed with open arms in Panama. President José Raúl Mulino, a friend of the USA, has publicly rejected Trump's claims, potentially leading some to question if these statements could push Panamanian sentiment towards China.
From a broader perspective, the canal is of immense interest to Germany, as it serves as a crucial link between western South American and US coasts. Given the canal's geostrategic importance, both the US and China have a vested interest in maintaining or influencing its operations.
To combat Trump's allegations, Panama initiated an audit of the Panama Ports Company, operated by Hutchison Ports, which oversees the canal's ports. The goal is to ensure efficient use of resources and alleviate American concerns about Chinese influence. Panama, however, has strongly denied any significant Chinese involvement, maintaining that tariffs are set by the Panama Canal Authority based on neutrality principles.
Trump's criticism has not altered Panama's relationship with China significantly. On the contrary, the country has continued to engage in economic diplomacy with China, investing billions in Chinese-backed infrastructure projects. This decision was underlined when Panama severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 2017 and joined China's New Silk Road infrastructure program.
In conclusion, Trump's stance on the Panama Canal fees is causing tension within Panama-U.S relations, while remaining relatively stable in relation to China. In response, Panama has increased transparency measures and emphasized its commitment to sovereignty and independence in managing the canal.
Donald Trump's suggestions about potential fee changes for American ships in the Panama Canal have gained attention from historical analysts. Christian Cwik, for instance, suggests that Trump's stance might hint at a modern form of imperialism due to the canal's historical and economic significance for the US.
During a recent podcast episode, Cwik pointed out how Trump's concerns about fees could echo the US's significant role in Panama's past, particularly during the construction and operational phases of the canal.
