Panama reaffirms control over Canal following Trump's comments

Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino reaffirmed the country's sovereignty over the Panama Canal on Sunday. His comments followed US President-elect Donald Trump's threats to retake control of the canal, which Panama fully managed since 1999. Mulino stated that the canal and its surrounding areas belong solely to Panama. He emphasized that there is no control from China, the European Union, or the United States, rejecting Trump's claims about unfair treatment and fees. Trump had expressed concerns about China's influence and threatened to demand the canal's return if Panama could not ensure its operation. Mulino, while rejecting Trump's assertions, expressed a desire for a respectful relationship with the incoming administration.