Martín Torrijos credits Torrijos-Carter Treaties for Panama's sovereignty

Former Panamanian President Martín Torrijos stated that the current state of Panama is a direct result of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, which facilitated the recovery of national sovereignty and the administration of the Panama Canal following a generational struggle.

During an interview, Torrijos discussed strategies to ensure that the wealth and development generated by the Canal benefit the general population. He noted that his administration initiated programs to allocate Canal resources toward local investments as a step toward national decentralization. He also suggested that the Canal’s expertise in water management should be applied at a national level rather than being restricted to the canal watershed.

Regarding the expanded Canal, Torrijos remarked that citizens recognize the increased capacity and possibilities provided by the new infrastructure. He also touched upon ongoing discussions regarding the relationship between the Canal and port facilities, suggesting the interoceanic waterway could potentially own such installations.