US Secretary of State Marco Rubio meets with the President of Panama

Washington DC – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with the President of Panama.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Panama about China’s influence and control over the Panama Canal, according to international media.

He said, the role of anyone other than America is unacceptable. He also said that the US will take necessary measures if the rules are changed in the Panama Canal.

Rubio gave a message of concern on behalf of US President Donald Trump in a meeting with Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino and Foreign Minister Javier Martinez in Panama City.

“US President Donald Trump has made an initial decision to threaten the Chinese Communist Party’s current level of influence and control over the Panama Canal Zone,” State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said in a statement. Not only did Rubio make it clear that the current situation was unacceptable and that there was no immediate change, the United States needed to take the necessary steps to protect its rights under the treaty regarding the permanent neutrality and operation of Panama.

Rubio arrived in Panama for the first time after assuming the post of US top diplomat. Rubio’s choice to visit Panama was a deliberate choice among the Central American nations of Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic, according to news reports. This is Rubio’s first foreign trip as US Secretary of State. His visit took place at a time when US President Donald Trump is increasing pressure on neighboring countries and allies with the demand to return control over the operation of the Panama Canal to the US.