In a joint statement published here by several media outlets, in reference to the threatening statements made by US President-elect Donald Trump, who has demanded the return of the inter-oceanic waterway, the diplomats supported Panama and reiterated that the strategic asset is non-negotiable.

The message from diplomats from countries such as Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Brazil and Panama reaffirmed the importance of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, signed in September 1977, as the basis for the transfer of the canal to Panamanian control and as a symbol of regional autonomy.

The former foreign ministers stressed that Panama’s management of the Canal has been exemplary, guaranteeing its functioning as a hub of international maritime trade and an engine of global economic development.

They also stressed that the country’s sovereignty over this infrastructure that had been built by the US in 1914 is a sign of the effort and international solidarity that support the Panamanian people in their historic struggle for control of the waterway through which nearly six percent of world trade passes.

It is undeniable that Panama has managed the canal responsibly and that it is a symbol of pride for all of Latin America,” the document states.

Among the signatories were José Miguel Insulza (Chile), María Ángela Holguín (Colombia), Claudia Ruiz (Mexico), Samuel Lewis and Isabel de Saint Malo (Panama), who stressed their unconditional support for the Central American nation in the legitimate defence of its most important economic asset.

This international support strengthens Panama’s stance against any attempt to challenge its autonomy over the Canal and consolidates the region’s commitment to the principles of sovereignty and independence.

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