U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a bilateral meeting with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, stating that the Donald Trump administration respects the relationship with Panama and reiterated that it considers the country an ally. Rubio and Mulino discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation programs between the two nations. The Secretary of State also indicated that U.S. companies will begin to have greater participation in bidding processes in Panama in this new era of relations with the United States. This follows the signing of the «Shield of the Americas» agreement, in which the U.S. and 12 countries from the American continent participate, with the objective of defending democracy in the hemisphere and reinforcing the fight against drug trafficking and criminal organizations. During the signing ceremony, U.S. President Donald Trump referred to Panama, stating that he «loves the canal,» in a clear sign that he has put an end to any differences over the operation of this interoceanic route. Trump even greeted President Mulino cordially for his participation in the summit of leaders held today in the city of Miami.
