The newly appointed US Ambassador to Panama, Kevin Cabrera, held his first press conference, focusing on three main points: security, migration control, and countering Chinese influence in the region. He praised the closing of the Darién Gap migration route as a joint achievement and expressed enthusiasm for strengthening ties between the US and Panama.
Cabrera voiced strong concerns about China's influence, referring to it as "malignant." He lauded Panama's decisions to withdraw from China's Belt and Road Initiative, audit Panama Ports concessions, and enhance cybersecurity cooperation regarding the Panama Canal. He highlighted alleged Chinese interference in the sale of the Panama Ports company.
On migration, Cabrera emphasized that a visa is a privilege, not a right, suggesting stricter immigration scrutiny. He defended the legality of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the US and Panama allowing US personnel to use Panamanian facilities for training and joint exercises. He also refuted accusations of illegal deportations, stating that both countries operate within the legal framework.
Cabrera addressed criticisms of the MOU, stating that both English and Spanish versions acknowledge Panama's sovereignty. He rejected accusations of establishing US military bases in Panama. He further dismissed what he termed misinformation spread for political gain and criticized past administrations for signing similar agreements. His remarks seemed directed at critics, including former President MartÃn Torrijos.