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The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, witnessed a deportation flight of 43 Colombian migrants from Panama on Monday and emphasized the cooperation between both countries to curb illegal migration through the dangerous Darién jungle.
Rubio, who is on his first international tour in his new position, emphasized on X that the United States' border "does not start in Texas and Mexico, but much earlier," highlighting the importance of addressing migration from its source.
As part of the visit, the former Republican senator from Florida met with the Panamanian president, José Raúl Mulino, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Javier Acha, to discuss joint strategies against illegal migration and Chinese influence in the region.
After these discussions, Panama announced that it will not renew its participation in China's Belt and Road Initiative, a decision that Rubio described as "a great step forward" for relations between the United States and Panama.
Rubio emphasized that the Donald Trump administration is committed to stopping illegal migration and protecting both the borders and American citizens.
In addition, he emphasized the importance of cooperation with Panama to address these challenges and protect strategic interests such as the Panama Canal.
He/She will visit other Central American and Caribbean countries
The Cuban-American Marco Rubio will also visit El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic, although for its significance, the first stop on the tour was Panama, where he arrived amid tensions following Donald Trump's threats to reclaim the Panama Canal.
This trip, which marks the beginning of her term at the State Department under the Trump administration, aims to strengthen bilateral relations with the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as to promote cooperation on key issues such as migration, economic growth, and regional security.
Mexico deploys 10,000 soldiers at the border, and Trump freezes tariffs for one month
In response to migratory pressure and threats of trade sanctions, the government of Mexico has deployed 10,000 armed forces personnel to its border with the United States.
This decision comes after a conversation between President Claudia Sheinbaum and the President of the United States, Donald Trump, who announced a one-month suspension of new tariffs on Mexican products.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. and Panama Cooperation to Curb Illegal Migration
What is the objective of the collaboration between the U.S. and Panama in the Darién?
The main objective of the collaboration between the United States and Panama is to halt illegal migration through the dangerous Darién jungle. This cooperation aims to address migration at its source, preventing migrants from reaching the borders of the United States.
How does Panama's decision not to renew China's Belt and Road Initiative affect things?
The decision by Panama not to renew its participation in China's Belt and Road Initiative is viewed by the United States as a significant step forward in bilateral relations. This decision reinforces the position of the U.S. in the region and aims to limit Chinese influence in strategic areas such as the Panama Canal.
Why is the Panama Canal important to the United States?
The Panama Canal is vital for the national and economic interests of the United States. The Trump administration has expressed concerns about Chinese influence in its management, which has increased tensions with the Panamanian government. The United States believes that protecting the canal is crucial for its security and economic prosperity.
What measures is the United States taking to stop illegal migration in the region?
The United States is implementing deportation flights and collaborating with countries in the region to curb illegal migration. Additionally, it is working with Panama to close dangerous migration routes such as the Darién, and has deployed Marines in Guantánamo to manage the flow of migrants.
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