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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to embark on his first overseas trip since taking the top diplomatic role, heading to Panama and four other Central American countries next week. The itinerary includes stops in Guatemala, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica.
This trip comes amid President Trump’s push for immigration reform and his demand for the U.S. return control over the Panama Canal. Trump has criticized Panama for ceding operation of the critical waterway to China during its final transfer in 1999 and accused it of breaking its commitments. Panama has denied these claims, stating the canal remains Panamanian.
Rubio’s visit is seen as a significant move by Trump, signaling his intent to realign U.S.-Panama relations on his terms. The U.S. administration largely built and administered the canal for decades before handing control back to Panama in 1999 under joint management with Washington.
The trip also marks a potential pivot for Rubio, given his role as the first Latino Secretary of State, with immigration likely to be a key focus of his agenda during the visit.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/rubio-visit-panama-source-says-amid-trump-push-take-back-canal-2025-01-23