Relatos de Negociadores y Gestores Panameños del Tratado Torrijos – Carter

Negotiations and Treaties: The Panama Canal

Introduction to the Treaties

• In 1967, the "three treaties" concerning the Panama Canal were introduced, which included agreements on the canal's operation and defense.

• These treaty proposals faced significant public rejection in Panama, particularly during a politically charged period leading up to elections.

Challenges in Negotiation

• There was a notable shift in public opinion against traditional views that these treaties represented the best possible outcome for Panama.

• Both President Marco Robles and President Nixon did not advance discussions on these treaties after initial proposals were made.

Military Influence and New Negotiations

• The U.S. government hesitated to engage with Panama under a military government following the failure of the 1967 treaties.

• After General Torrijos assumed power, negotiations resumed in 1970 with a new team focused on addressing national interests.

Public Sentiment and Political Strategy

• The negotiation process was heavily influenced by popular support for Torrijos' administration, countering claims that his revolution was losing traction.

• It was emphasized that foreign policy must reflect domestic sentiments; otherwise, internal politics could become disconnected from public needs.

Key Events Leading to Resolution

• A strong sense of unity among Panamanians emerged as they sought to confront challenges collectively for national prosperity.

• The ambassador of Panama at the United Nations played a crucial role in advocating for international attention towards their cause.

Significant International Meetings

• On March 15, 1973, an important meeting took place in Panama involving over 200 journalists covering discussions at the UN Security Council level.

• During this session, it was declared that Panama had never been merely a colony or protectorate of any nation but sought full sovereignty.

Voting Outcomes and Global Support

• A resolution supporting Panama received overwhelming backing from most nations present at the UN Security Council meeting except for Britain and the U.S., marking a diplomatic victory for Panama.

Shift in U.S.-Panama Relations

• With new American negotiator F. Karp arriving mid-1973, relations improved significantly between U.S. diplomats and their Panamanian counterparts due to prior international support.

Conclusion of Negotiations

Negotiations and Historical Context of the Panama Canal Treaties

Kissinger's Role in Negotiations

• Kissinger allowed for a broader negotiation route, indicating a willingness to continue discussions despite challenges.

• The U.S. Secretary of State welcomed Panamanian negotiators, marking the beginning of a new round of talks under President Carter's administration.

Dynamics of the Negotiation Process

• Negotiations were primarily held in Washington, emphasizing transparency and regular communication among involved parties.

• General Torrijos utilized various international forums to advocate for Panama’s interests, raising awareness about their sovereignty.

Political Climate and Challenges

• The presence of President Carter was pivotal; his belief in justice and human rights facilitated a common understanding with Panamanian representatives.

• During negotiations at the White House, President Carter expressed concerns about the difficulty of securing congressional approval for treaty agreements.

Legislative Hurdles

• There was apprehension that American negotiators might begin to reject Panamanian requests as political pressures mounted within Congress.

• This marked the first public discussion of treaties in U.S. history, highlighting significant opposition within the Senate.

Treaty Significance and Opposition

• Despite internal struggles within Congress regarding treaty approval, President Carter maintained that recognizing Panama's rights was morally correct.

• The successful passage relied on strategic votes from congressmen who were initially reluctant or absent during critical moments.

Reflections on Historical Impact

• The speaker emphasized understanding historical context during negotiations, noting that opportunities like this are rare ("the train does not repeat").

• Personal reflections revealed that participants often do not realize they are making history while engaged in such significant activities.

Omar Torrijos' Perspective

• Torrijos candidly expressed skepticism about the treaties but recognized their importance for national sovereignty amidst U.S. military influence.

Long-term Implications

• A clause granting perpetual military defense rights over any future canals built through Panamanian territory raised concerns about ongoing foreign intervention.

Conclusion on Treaty Acceptance

Reflections on Panama's Sovereignty and Future Prospects

Acknowledgment of Panama's Sovereignty

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing Panama's total sovereignty over the region, particularly in relation to the operation of the canal.

• There is a sense of mutual respect among those gathered, highlighting a collaborative spirit in discussions about future developments.

• The speaker notes that what has been achieved so far is merely the beginning, suggesting optimism for future advancements.

• The mention of a century-long journey underscores the historical significance and challenges faced in reaching this point.