President-elect Donald J. Trump has appointed Miami-Dade County Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera as the U.S. Ambassador to Panama. This selection follows Trump’s recent remarks about reestablishing control over the Panama Canal amid concerns about high fees charged to American vessels. Cabrera, experienced in international trade and a Trump supporter, is expected to strengthen U.S.-Panama relations while addressing trade and security issues linked to the canal’s management.
On Wednesday, President-elect Donald J. Trump appointed Kevin Marino Cabrera, a Miami-Dade County commissioner, as the United States Ambassador to Panama. This decision follows Mr. Trump’s call for the U.S. to reassert its control over the Panama Canal. Mr. Cabrera, who is the District 6 commissioner and vice chairman of Miami-Dade’s International Trade Consortium, has a background in trade politics and has actively supported the Trump campaign. “Few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin,” stated Mr. Trump via social media, emphasizing his confidence in Mr. Cabrera’s ability to represent U.S. interests in Panama.
Mr. Trump has previously expressed concerns regarding the Panama Canal’s operation, suggesting that the U.S. could demand its return if Panama continues to charge exorbitant fees to American vessels. He accused Panama of “ripping us off on the Panama Canal, far beyond their wildest dreams.” The Panama Canal, an essential waterway completed in 1914, was under U.S. control until the transfer of authority to Panama was finalized in 1999 under President Jimmy Carter.
The Panama Canal serves as a critical link in global shipping, allowing vessels to traverse between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and significantly reducing travel distance and time compared to the route around South America. Mr. Trump’s concerns about the canal’s management appear to reflect apprehensions regarding Chinese influence in the region, as China is one of the largest users of the canal, although it does not govern it.
Overall, the selection of Mr. Cabrera signals Mr. Trump’s continued focus on the United States’ strategic interests in the region, particularly concerning trade dynamics and national security. Mr. Cabrera’s experience and ties to the Republican Party may play a significant role in shaping U.S.-Panama relations in the near future.
The Panama Canal is a key strategic waterway that has immense significance in global commerce, allowing for the transit of thousands of vessels and expediting shipping times between oceans. Control over the canal has historical implications, having been an essential asset during U.S. military and economic expansion in the 20th century. The shift of authority from the United States to Panama in the late 20th century reflects changing geopolitical dynamics and emphasizes issues surrounding trade and international relations, particularly with respect to modern influences, such as those from China. Mr. Trump’s administration has revived discussions surrounding U.S. control of the canal, correlating it with financial grievances regarding tolls imposed on American ships.
In conclusion, the appointment of Kevin Marino Cabrera as Ambassador to Panama reflects President-elect Trump’s commitment to reassessing U.S. interests in the region, especially with regard to the Panama Canal. Mr. Cabrera’s knowledge of Latin American politics and prior affiliations with the Trump campaign may facilitate future negotiations and policies that address trade and security concerns. As the U.S. contemplates its relationship with Panama, particularly in light of potential foreign influence, Mr. Cabrera’s role will be crucial in advocating for American interests.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
