On December 31, 2024, Panama celebrated the 25th anniversary of the handover of the Panama Canal from the United States, a significant event that was overshadowed by recent threats from US President-elect Donald Trump to reassert control over the waterway. This anniversary holds particular poignancy with the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, who was instrumental in the negotiation of the treaties that facilitated the transfer.

At the anniversary ceremony held in Panama City, President José Raúl Mulino expressed a mix of emotions, acknowledging both the joy of sovereignty and the sadness of Carter's death. "On this, such a special day ... a mix of happiness for this 25th anniversary ... and the sadness we feel for the death of former president Jimmy Carter," Mulino stated, as he led a moment of silence in Carter's honor (SCMP).

Despite the spirit of the celebrations, Trump has criticized what he described as "ridiculous fees" for traversing the canal and has warned that if Panama does not rectify these issues, he would "demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States, in full and without question" (AP News). His statements have sparked disbelief and anger among Panamanians, who view such rhetoric as a threat to their national sovereignty.

The 1977 treaties designed by Carter not only facilitated the return of the canal but were also intended to end an era marked by foreign dominance and control. Former President Martin Torrijos noted that "any attempt to reverse or violate our sovereignty will be condemned and rejected by all Panamanians" (Al Jazeera).

During the ceremony, Mulino reaffirmed that the canal would remain under Panamanian control, assuring attendees, "There are no hands involved in the canal other than Panama's" (AP News). He dismissed claims of Chinese military presence in the area, which Trump has alleged, stating, "For the love of God, there are no Chinese soldiers in the canal" (SCMP).

The Panama Canal represents a crucial economic asset, with around 5% of global maritime traffic relying on it. It contributes significantly to Panama's economic stability, generating approximately 6% of the nation’s GDP and accounting for 20% of fiscal revenues. Despite this, many Panamanians feel that the benefits have yet to be distributed fairly among the population, underscoring long-standing calls for broader economic equity.

As Panama reflects on its history with the canal, the memory of those who fought for its return is acknowledged, particularly the events of January 9, 1964, known as Martyrs Day, where students were killed while raising the Panamanian flag in the former Canal Zone. The prevailing sentiment is one of pride and resistance against threats to their hard-won sovereignty as they navigate current political challenges ([source](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/31/panama-commemorates-canal-handover-despite-trumps-call-for-us-control)).