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Miami-Dade County Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera was confirmed on Wednesday as the new U.S. ambassador to Panama amid tensions over threats from the current administration to seize control of the iconic canal of the Central American nation.
Cabrera, of Cuban origin, was appointed at the behest of President Donald Trump, who nominated him for the position after announcing that during his administration he wanted to return control of the interoceanic canal to the United States, which had been officially transferred in 1999.
"I feel deeply honored by the trust placed in me by President Trump and the Senate," Cabrera expressed after his confirmation.
"As an ambassador, I will be guided by the simple question posed by Secretary Rubio: 'Does this make the United States safer, stronger, and more prosperous?'" he added.
Cabrera, 45 years old, had held the position of commissioner for District 6 of Miami-Dade for just over two years, which includes parts of Miami, Hialeah, and Coral Gables.
The designation comes amid a climate of diplomatic tension following Trump's threats to regain control of the Panama Canal if transit fees are not reduced.
These statements were strongly rejected by the Panamanian president, José Raúl Mulino, who described the sovereignty of the canal as “non-negotiable” and received the support of several regional leaders.
The Panama Canal, inaugurated in 1914 and managed by the United States until its transfer in 1999 through the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, remains a key strategic point for global trade. Trump's stance and the future actions of Marino Cabrera in office could define a new phase in relations between the two countries.
After appointing Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, Trump announced two other individuals of Cuban descent: Mauricio Claver-Carone as Special Envoy of the State Department for Latin America, and Peter Lamelas as the next ambassador to Argentina.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Appointment of Kevin Marino Cabrera and the Tensions Between the United States and Panama
Who is Kevin Marino Cabrera and what is his new position?
Kevin Marino Cabrera is a Miami-Dade County commissioner of Cuban origin, recently appointed by Donald Trump as the United States ambassador to Panama. Cabrera has been recognized for his work in economic growth and international relations in Florida.
Why has Trump threatened to reclaim the Panama Canal?
Donald Trump has threatened to reclaim the Panama Canal due to his disagreement with the current fees for ship transit, which he considers unfair to the United States. Additionally, he expressed concern about China's influence in the interoceanic passage.
What has been Panama's response to Trump's statements?
The president of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, responded firmly, stating that the canal belongs to Panama and will continue to do so. He emphasized that his country has ensured efficient and profitable operations, defending the fees as necessary for the maintenance of the canal.
What changes could Kevin Marino Cabrera's appointment bring to relations between the United States and Panama?
The appointment of Kevin Marino Cabrera could mark a new phase in the relations between the United States and Panama. Given the current diplomatic tension over the Panama Canal fees, his role as ambassador will be crucial in addressing these challenges and seeking agreements that benefit both countries.
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