Panama Refutes US Claim on Free Canal Transit for Government Ships
In a recent statement, Panama's government has categorically rejected a claim made by the US State Department, which asserted that US government ships are entitled to transit the Panama Canal free of charge. Panama's strong rebuttal has sparked a diplomatic row between the two nations, with significant implications for global trade and maritime relations.
At the heart of the dispute lies a long-standing agreement between the US and Panama, which governs the operation of the Panama Canal. The canal, one of the world's most critical waterways, connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, allowing ships to pass through the Isthmus of Panama and saving them thousands of miles of travel.
Panama's government has insisted that all ships, including those owned by foreign governments, must pay tolls to transit the canal. The tolls are calculated based on a ship's size, type, and cargo, and are a crucial source of revenue for Panama's economy.
The US State Department's claim appears to be based on a misinterpretation of the 1977 Torrijos-Carter Treaties, which transferred ownership of the Panama Canal from the US to Panama. While the treaties do provide for certain privileges and exemptions for US government ships, they do not explicitly grant them free transit through the canal.
Panama's Foreign Ministry has issued a statement emphasizing that the country's laws and regulations apply equally to all ships, regardless of their nationality or ownership. "Panama's sovereignty over the canal is non-negotiable," the statement read. "We will not tolerate any attempts to undermine our authority or disregard our laws."
The ministry also pointed out that the US government has previously recognized Panama's right to charge tolls for canal transit. In 1999, the US State Department issued a statement acknowledging that "Panama has the authority to set and collect tolls for the use of the Panama Canal" ¹.
The dispute between the US and Panama has significant implications for global trade and maritime relations. The Panama Canal is a critical artery of international commerce, with over 14,000 vessels passing through it every year.
If the US were to insist on free transit for its government ships, it could set a precedent for other nations to make similar demands. This could lead to a breakdown in the canal's operations, causing delays and disruptions to global supply chains.
Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the dispute. Panama's Foreign Minister has held talks with US officials, emphasizing the need for a mutually acceptable solution. The US State Department has also issued a statement, acknowledging Panama's sovereignty over the canal and expressing a willingness to negotiate a resolution.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Panama will not back down on its claim to charge tolls for canal transit. The country's sovereignty and economic interests are at stake, and it will vigorously defend them. The world will be watching as this diplomatic row plays out, with significant implications for global trade and maritime relations.
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