Latin America Prepares for Donald Trump’s Return

Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo announced a meeting of Latin American foreign ministers in Mexico City to align their positions regarding Donald Trump’s incoming inauguration. Murillo explained that key topics such as migration, trade, and drug trafficking will be discussed during the meeting on Jan. 17.

US president-elect Donald Trump will be inaugurated on Jan. 20, with plans to take immediate action on Latin American issues. "We are aware of the statements surrounding Canada, and in collaboration with Colombia, Mexico, and Honduras, we are convening a meeting of foreign ministers, both in-person in Mexico City and virtually, to discuss as a region the implications of Trump's rhetoric and how we can align our positions ahead of our interaction with the new administration," Murillo stated.

He also highlighted concerns in the region regarding Trump's stance on relations with Mexico and Panama. In Mexico, the most pressing concerns include Trump's proposals for new tariffs and mass deportations, while in Panama, his comments about recovering the Panama Canal have raised alarm.

In response to Trump's tariff threats, Mexico's Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente emphasized the government's proactive strategy through Plan Mexico to counter the tariffs. He also underscored that consular services for Mexicans in the United States have been strengthened in anticipation of mass deportations. "You are not alone. Our network of consular services is being reinforced and is prepared to support and protect you in any situation," de la Fuente stated.

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has rejected Trump's threat to attempt to take back control of the Panama Canal. "I want to make it clear that every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent zone belongs to Panama and will continue to belong to Panama. Sovereignty and independence are non-negotiable," Mulino responded.