The elected president of the United States, Donald Trump, has expressed concerns to Panama regarding the imposition of "excessive fees and tariffs" for the use of the Panama Canal.
The politician's statement was published on the social network Truth Social.
Trump plans significant changes in U.S. policy from day one in office – ReutersDonald Trump intends to sign over 25 executive orders on the first day of his second term to radically alter U.S. policy in key areas."Our Navy and trade have been treated very unfairly and unreasonably. The fees charged by Panama are laughable, especially considering the extraordinary generosity shown to Panama by the United States,” he wrote.
Trump pointed out that the canal was built with American funds and labor and criticized President Jimmy Carter for the decision to transfer ownership of the canal to Panama for just one dollar.
According to the elected president, the Panama Canal is "vital" for the U.S. as over 70 percent of all transits are directed to or from American ports.
"It (the canal – ed.) was not given for the benefit of others, but simply as a gesture of cooperation between us and Panama. If the principles, both moral and legal, of this generous act of gifting are not upheld, we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full and without question," Trump concluded.
Recall that recently Trump stated that immediately after taking office, he will impose new tariffs on all imported goods from China, Mexico, and Canada.
The politician also mentioned that ending Russia's war against Ukraine will be his top priority in foreign policy.