Panama vows zero tolerance for criminals exploiting its maritime registry

HAMILTON, Canada

Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino on Monday said his country will not allow criminal networks to exploit its ship registry or maritime routes, pledging stronger measures to protect global trade and marine resources.

"My country holds a geographically strategic position, historically linked to the oceans, and seriously takes up its responsibility in maintaining safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime routes," said Mulino during a UN Security Council session, who is also presiding over the Council this month.

Highlighting that "more than 80% of global trade, by volume, is transported via maritime routes," Mulino said the seas remain "particularly vulnerable to the expansion of transnational organized crime," including illicit trafficking in drugs, weapons, migrants, and counterfeit goods.

"In the face of these challenges, Panama has taken a clear stance of responsible leadership and effective action," he said.

Noting that "good maritime governance" ensures vessel traceability, facilitates maritime surveillance, and prevents international crime, he affirmed that "Panama is not, nor will it ever be, a refuge for those who violate international law or threaten the security of the oceans."

Mulino also stressed Panama's commitment to combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing through sanctions, improved surveillance, and international cooperation.

Saying that the Panama Canal serves "180 maritime routes connecting with more than 1920 ports in 170 countries," he added that its treaty-based neutrality "stands as a guarantee of free transit and stability."