Panama said Wednesday that the U.S. has acknowledged its sovereignty over the Panama Canal following a visit by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Panama’s Minister of Public Security Frank Abrego stated Hegseth “recognized the leadership and inalienable sovereignty of Panama” during bilateral meetings.
However, the Pentagon’s English-language version of the joint statement omitted that language, unlike Panama’s Spanish-language version. The discrepancy comes amid President Donald Trump’s past remarks suggesting the U.S. should reclaim control of the canal from Chinese influence.
Hegseth said the administration’s position focuses on countering “communist Chinese influence” rather than reclaiming territorial control. He confirmed U.S. troops will train on Panamanian soil via joint exercises, but Abrego reiterated Panama’s stance against permanent U.S. military bases.
The U.S. and Panama signed new agreements expanding security cooperation and pledging to ensure expedited passage for American and Panamanian warships. About 40% of U.S. container traffic—worth $270 billion annually—passes through the canal.
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