U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's first foreign trip included a tour of the Panama Canal. The visit occurred at sunset, with the administrator of the Panama Canal, Ricaurte Vásquez Morales, accompanying Secretary Rubio. This visit underscores the importance of the Panama Canal to U.S. foreign policy and trade interests.
During the tour, Administrator Vásquez Morales reiterated that the Panama Canal would remain in Panamanian hands and open to all countries. This statement is significant given the canal's strategic importance for global commerce and geopolitical dynamics. The discussions likely covered the canal's operational capacity, security, and future development plans.
The Panama Canal has historically been a vital artery for international trade and a focal point of U.S. foreign policy in Latin America. Secretary Rubio's visit reaffirms the U.S. commitment to maintaining open and stable relations with Panama, ensuring the canal's continued accessibility for all nations. This engagement also serves as a signal of U.S. interest in regional stability and economic cooperation.
“the waterway will remain in Panama's hands and open to all countries.”
with consistent frequency of Secretary of State visits
Source: U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Travel Records
Note: Data represents diplomatic activity from 1997-2024