U.S.-Panama Security Cooperation (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Nov. 21, 2024 |
| Report Number |
IN12461 |
| Report Type |
Insight |
| Authors |
Leticia Chacon |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
U.S. policymakers view Panama as critical to U.S. security and economic interests, in part due to the
country’s control of the Panama Canal and strategic location between North and South America and
between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Successive U.S. Administrations have sought to work with
Panamanian authorities to address potential threats to U.S. interests, particularly those related to
migration, drug trafficking, and security of the Panama Canal. U.S. and Panamanian officials participate
in an annual High-Level Security Dialogue focused on joint border, citizen, cyber, and maritime security
efforts; the most recent dialogue occurred in February 2024.
The Biden Administration affirmed its support for bilateral cooperation to new Panamanian Presidentelect José Raúl Mulino in May 2024, and U.S. military and homeland security officials have indicated
support for pursuing continued security cooperation. Congress may assess the results of ongoing U.S.-
Panama security efforts and consider whether to enhance cooperation with the Mulino administration as it
appropriates funding and considers other potential legislation.
