Secretary of State's Journey: A Closer Look at US Policy in Central America

The top diplomat of the US, Marco Rubio, has embarked on a significant trip to Central America, starting with Panama. This journey is not just a diplomatic courtesy but a strategic move to advance the Trump administration's "America First" policy. The goal is clear: to intensify efforts to control migration and address the complex challenges posed by China's growing influence in the region. The choice of Central American countries—Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic—is deliberate. The Trump administration aims to strengthen ties with these nations to curb the flow of migrants heading to the US. The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated migration issues, leading to a surge in people attempting to enter the US from various countries. Migration is a hot topic during Rubio's visit, especially after a tense exchange between Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The public spat has set the tone for how the administration plans to engage with regional allies. Rubio's message is clear: countries that cooperate on migration will be rewarded, while those that don't will face consequences. But how exactly will the Trump administration work with these countries? The details are still fuzzy. One key area of focus will be El Salvador. The US is in talks to renew an asylum agreement that would allow it to send non-Salvadoran asylum seekers to El Salvador. This could be a game-changer in managing the migrant crisis. The US is also looking to strengthen its relationship with El Salvador, a country known for its tough stance on gangs. The Trump administration admires President Nayib Bukele's aggressive measures against criminal organizations. In fact, they are discussing a new agreement to deport suspected members of the Tren de Aragua gang, which originated in Venezuela, to El Salvador. Costa Rica is another stop on Rubio's itinerary. The discussion there will revolve around expanding repatriation efforts. This includes not just migrants from South America but also those from other continents who pass through Costa Rica on their way to the US. Panama holds a special place in this journey. The country's role in managing migrant traffic through the Darien Gap is crucial. This treacherous jungle passage connects South and Central America, and the number of migrants crossing through it has dropped significantly. The US and Panama have already struck an agreement to address this flow, and Rubio's visit will likely focus on expanding these efforts. The Panama Canal is another hot-button issue. Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to regain control of this key waterway, citing national security concerns. However, Panamanian officials, including President José Raúl Mulino, have made it clear that Panama's sovereignty over the canal is non-negotiable. Rubio will also touch on the broader issue of countering China's influence in the region. Trade between China and Latin American countries has skyrocketed, and the US is keen to ensure that its interests are protected. The Dominican Republic will be a focal point for discussions on countering narcotics, another priority for the Trump administration. Critics argue that Trump's policies, such as the freeze on foreign aid, are undermining US efforts to counter China's influence. They believe that this vacuum could be filled by Beijing, further complicating the situation in the region.