Pete Hegseth, el secretario de Defensa de Estados Unidos, ya se encuentra en Panamá | La Prensa Panamá

Key Points of Pete Hegseth's Visit to Panama

United States Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, visited Panama on April 7, 2025, arriving at the Panama Pacific International Airport.

His visit marks the second high-level US official visit to Panama this year.

Purpose of the Visit

Hegseth's visit is primarily focused on participating in the 2025 Central American Security Conference (CENTSEC), co-organized by Panama and the US.

• He will hold bilateral meetings with civil, military, and security leaders.
• The goal is to bolster regional cooperation and a shared vision for a secure and peaceful continent.

Diplomatic Context

The visit occurs amid diplomatic tensions stemming from US President Donald Trump's claims of Chinese influence in the Panama Canal's administration, which the Panamanian government denies.

Official Meetings

Hegseth's agenda included a meeting with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino on April 8th, along with key members of the Panamanian cabinet.

• The meeting also involved the Panamanian ambassador to the US and the Panama Canal administrator.
• Hegseth also toured the Miraflores Locks.

Other Participants

Admiral Alvin Holsey, commander of the United States Southern Command, also attended the CENTSEC conference in Panama.