Rubio talks U.S.-Panama cooperation on migration

(The Center Square) – During his visit to Panama, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized collaboration between the United States and Panama in addressing regional migration challenges.

Rubio praised the joint efforts aimed at curbing illegal immigration and human trafficking.

"We have worked very hard together, and we will continue to do so as a part of very many things. We have strong cooperation with our friends and partners in the Panamanian government," Rubio stated.

A key component in the partnership is a program designed to deter mass migration by sending a clear message to potential migrants.

Rubio said, "The only people who benefit from mass migration are traffickers, and so this is a program that shows how cooperating with our strong allies here in Panama can help to stem the flow by creating a disincentive, by sending a clear message that if you come and you come irregularly, you may be stopped and you may be returned to your country of origin, and it can be done in a regular and dignified but effective way and we've seen it in the numbers."

While migration was the primary focus of Rubio's remarks, his visit comes as U.S. officials have put pressure on Panama over Chinese involvement in the canal, and despite the strong focus on U.S.-Panama collaboration, Rubio notably did not address the Panama Canal.

The U.S. has previously raised concerns about China's growing presence at the canal, warning that increased Chinese influence could threaten the canal's neutrality and long-term security.

It remains unclear where the trump administration will take further steps to address the concerns over the canal, as Panama has emphasized its sovereignty in managing the waterway.