Panama on Tuesday celebrated the 25th anniversary of the handover of the Panama Canal, marking a significant milestone since regaining control of the vital waterway from the United States after nearly a century.
The Panama Canal, inaugurated by the United States in 1914, was operated by the U.S. until December 31, 1999. The historic Torrijos-Carter Treaties, signed on September 7, 1977, by Panama’s General Omar Torrijos and U.S. President Jimmy Carter, paved the way for the end of 85 years of American control over the Panama Canal Zone.
Speaking from the steps of the Panama Canal Administration Building, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino reflected on the progress made since the handover. “These 25 years of Panamanian administration have worked on a common goal: to fulfill the national commitment to a safe and continuous operation for the world,” Mulino stated.
He emphasized the canal’s significance to the nation, saying, “This canal has to be and has to continue to be the canal of our Panamanians, for Panamanians, at the world’s service but above all for Panamanians mainly.”
The Panama Canal Administration Building holds historical importance as the site of the official handover ceremony on December 31, 1999, when the interoceanic waterway was transferred to the Panamanian government led by then-President Mireya Mosco.
Ricaurte Vasquez Morales, the Panama Canal Administrator, highlighted the achievements of the past 25 years under Panamanian management. Significant milestones include the canal’s expansion and the construction of the Third Set of Locks, which began operating in 2016, enhancing the canal’s capacity and global trade impact.
During the anniversary ceremony, Miguel Guerra, the first Panamanian hired by the Panama Canal following its historic handover in 1999, was honored. He received Panama’s Order of Vasco Núñez de Balboa from President Mulino in recognition of his contributions.
The Panama Canal continues to be a critical conduit for international maritime trade, linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and serving nations worldwide. The 25th anniversary serves as a moment of national pride and a reminder of Panama’s sovereignty and its role in global commerce.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
