Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier MartÃnez-Acha responded defensively to criticism regarding Panama's foreign policy, rejecting concerns about transparency and a lack of a comprehensive strategy. He dismissed criticism as invalid and attributed some concerns to populism and disinformation. He maintained that the country's foreign actions are in line with national interests and existing agreements.
MartÃnez-Acha's statement closely mirrors the previous statements of his former vice-chancellor, Carlos Ruiz-Hernández, leading to accusations of lacking originality and a lack of independent thought within the ministry.
Agreements with the US, including a memorandum of understanding on security issues, generated significant debate. While the US emphasized priority transit rights for its naval vessels through the Panama Canal, Panamanian officials clarified a 'cost-neutral' approach. The lack of explicit mention of Panamanian sovereignty in the US Department of Defense communication further fueled the political storm.
The article details a crisis in Panamanian foreign policy, marked by internal conflict, questionable foreign agreements with the US, and accusations of a lack of transparency and independent decision-making.