PANAMA CITY, Panama – U.S. President Donald Trump has formally congratulated Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino on the 122nd anniversary of Panama’s independence from Colombia, emphasizing the strong bilateral relationship and committing to enhanced cooperation on security, trade, and the protection of the Panama Canal. The letter, dated October 2025, was shared publicly by President Mulino via his official social media account.
In the diplomatic correspondence, President Trump characterized Panama as a “firm friend and valuable ally” of the United States. He specifically acknowledged Panama’s critical role in regional security initiatives, including the fight against drug trafficking and irregular migration, which he described as vital to the prosperity of both nations.
“On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I congratulate you and the great people of Panama on the 122nd anniversary of Panama’s independence,” Trump stated in the letter.
Strategic Cooperation on Security and at the United Nations
The U.S. President’s letter detailed several key areas of collaboration. He expressed appreciation for Panama’s “exceptional cooperation” as a member of the United Nations Security Council. Trump also highlighted the joint efforts in Haiti, specifically through the establishment of the Gang Suppression Force and the United Nations Support Office in Haiti.
“Your leadership in strengthening regional security, combating drug trafficking, and confronting illegal migration is vital for the security and prosperity of our two nations,” President Trump added.
This public affirmation of the security partnership comes amid ongoing regional challenges and underscores the strategic importance the United States places on its relationship with Panama.
The Panama Canal: A Vital Pillar of Commerce
A significant portion of the communication focused on the Panama Canal, which President Trump termed a “vital pillar of commerce for the United States and the world.” He reaffirmed his administration’s willingness to work with the Panamanian government to protect the vital waterway.
The Canal has been a sensitive point in the bilateral agenda since Trump’s return to the White House in January 2025. Previous statements from the U.S. President have revealed concerns about Chinese influence over the interoceanic route, prompting calls for greater security and defense cooperation. This letter, however, struck a more collaborative tone, focusing on mutual interests.
“I appreciate the words of President Donald Trump to the Panamanian people for the celebration of our national holidays. We are friendly, sovereign nations cooperating on fundamental issues such as security, peace, and the protection of freedoms,” President Mulino stated in his social media post sharing the letter.
President Mulino has consistently affirmed Panama’s sovereignty over the Canal. During his address at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2025, he declared, “The Panama Canal, neutral, open to the world, and a facilitator of more integrated international trade, is and will continue to be Panamanian.”
Strengthening Economic and Diplomatic Ties
Beyond security, President Trump’s letter conveyed an interest in expanding economic and commercial links between the two countries. He expressed confidence that the “enduring alliance” would continue to make both nations safer and more prosperous.
The diplomatic exchange occurs shortly after Presidents Mulino and Trump met in New York. On September 23, 2025, President Mulino and First Lady Maricel Cohen de Mulino attended a reception hosted by President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump during the high-level segment of the UN General Assembly.
This sequence of events—a high-level meeting followed by a public, formal letter—signals an effort by both administrations to reinforce a strategic partnership that balances mutual security interests with respect for Panamanian sovereignty, particularly concerning the pivotal Panama Canal.