The Joint Military Exercises with the United States are “Temporary” According to Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha
In an interview with Euronews, the foreign minister also took the opportunity to deny any cession of national sovereignty.
Martínez-Acha downplayed tensions with Trump and asserted that relations with his administration have been established within a framework of mutual respect. According to Martínez-Acha, these exercises do not represent a permanent presence of US troops in the country. In an interview with Euronews, the chancellor also took the opportunity to deny any cession of national sovereignty. “There will be no permanent presence of foreign forces in our territory. This is temporary,” the Panamanian foreign minister stated. Martínez-Acha offered his remarks during his participation, starting July 14, in the European Union-Central America Association Council in Brussels.
The Foreign Ministry noted this Tuesday, July 15, that the statements come amid international attention regarding the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Panama and the United States, which allows for joint training operations with the National Police. In addition, the agency noted that this weekend, three U.S. military helicopters arrived in the country to conduct preparation maneuvers aimed at protecting the Panama Canal from potential threats. The signing of the memorandum came after U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States should regain control of the Panama Canal due to Chinese interference in the country. Martínez-Acha downplayed these tensions and asserted that relations with the Trump administration have been established within a framework of mutual respect. “We understand that we have a privileged relationship with the United States. At times, it has been complex, but currently, we cooperate with respect for the integrity and sovereignty of Panama,” Martínez-Acha stated.
