José Raúl Mulino was sworn in as Panama’s next president, with a promise to close the Darien Gap, a route frequently used by migrants from Venezuela, Ecuador, Colombia, and China. The U.S. government has committed to covering the cost of repatriating migrants who enter Panama illegally through the Darien. Mulino’s focus on ending irregular immigration through the gap is a major priority. Panama had previously facilitated migrant passage, but Mulino aims to change this approach.
Mulino will also have to address management of the Panama Canal, navigate a budget deficit due to the cancellation of a major mining concession, and tackle high levels of public debt. He criticized the outgoing administration for leaving behind economic challenges. Mulino plans to focus on improving infrastructure, addressing youth unemployment, and combating poverty.
The U.S. government’s agreement to assist Panama in deporting migrants could potentially reduce the number of migrants reaching the U.S. border, but it may also lead to migrants taking riskier routes and benefiting smugglers. Mulino’s strong commitment to closing the Darien Gap could face opposition, but he appears resolved to carry out this policy.
Mulino won the election with over 30% of the vote in May, replacing former President Ricardo Martinelli. He faces a complex set of challenges, from migration to economic issues, and has pledged to prioritize the needs of the Panamanian population in his administration.
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