Chicago – February 01, 2025
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to embark on his first overseas trip as the nation’s top diplomat, starting Saturday. His six-day visit will begin in Panama as he works to advance President Donald Trump’s foreign policy goals.
Trump had expressed during his inauguration that he wanted to “take back” the Panama Canal, and Rubio’s trip aims to strengthen America’s relationship with the region. Special Envoy for Latin America, Mauricio Claver-Carone, said the purpose of the visit is to restore a “Golden Age” for America, signaling that the 21st century should be an “American century.”
This trip is especially significant because it marks the first time in over 100 years that a Secretary of State has chosen Latin America as their first international stop. During the visit, Rubio is scheduled to meet with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino to discuss key issues, including migration, drug trafficking, and China’s growing influence over the Panama Canal.
The Trump administration has raised concerns about Chinese companies operating at both ends of the canal, arguing they could potentially control it, threatening U.S. trade. However, President Mulino has denied that China has any control over the canal and made it clear that ownership discussions are not on the table.
