In a recent development, President-elect Donald Trump has named Kevin Marino Cabrera, the Miami-Dade commissioner, as his choice for the ambassador to the Republic of Panama.
This move is seen as another attempt by Trump to express his dissatisfaction with the Latin American nation.
According to The Washington Examiner, Trump, in his Wednesday afternoon statement, expressed his pleasure in announcing Cabrera's appointment. He stated, I am pleased to announce that Kevin Marino Cabrera will serve as the United States Ambassador to the Republic of Panama, a Country that is ripping us off on the Panama Canal, far beyond their wildest dreams. Trump lauded Cabrera as a fierce fighter for America First principles, adding that few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin.
The President-elect seized this opportunity to voice his accusation against Panama for the third time in less than a week, claiming that the country is "ripping off" the U.S. over the canal. The canal, constructed in the early 20th century, was under U.S. ownership and operation until its handover to Panama in 1999.
Over the past weekend, Trump suggested that the U.S. should reclaim the Panama Canal, a proposal that was promptly dismissed by the Panamanian government. Trump has criticized Panama for imposing "exorbitant rates" on the U.S. for canal usage and hinted at potential Chinese influence over the waterway.
Trump labeled Panama's fees as "ridiculous" and "highly unfair." He warned, if that didnt change, we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States of America in full, quickly and without question.
While Trump did not mention the canal's return in his announcement, he hinted that Marino Cabrera "will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nations interests in Panama!" This suggests that the new ambassador will play a crucial role in addressing these contentious issues and fostering a more balanced relationship between the two nations.
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