Kevin Cabrera: Ensuring Panama Canal Neutrality and US-Panama Relations

Ambassador Nominee's Opening Statement

• 🇺🇸 Kevin Cabrera expresses gratitude for his nomination as the next US Ambassador to Panama and emphasizes his commitment to serving the American people.
• 💡 He outlines his personal journey as a first-generation American and son of Cuban exiles, highlighting how it instilled a deep appreciation for liberty, democracy, and a strong sense of duty.
• 🎯 Cabrera embraces President Trump's "America First" foreign policy, guided by the principles of making America stronger, safer, and more prosperous.

Strategic Importance of the Panama Canal

• 🚢 The US-Panama bilateral relationship is deemed critically important, rooted in shared values and mutual interests, including security, immigration, and economic engagement.
• 🔑 A key aspect of this cooperation is ensuring the security and neutrality of the Panama Canal, a vital international waterway for global trade.
• ✅ Panama's decision to exit the Belt and Road Initiative and audit port concessions are highlighted as demonstrations of commitment to this shared goal.

Immigration and Economic Cooperation

• 🤝 Immigration cooperation is a cornerstone, addressing challenges related to illegal immigration and transnational criminal activity through joint strategies.
• 📈 Economic engagement is critical, with US investments supporting energy production, infrastructure, and supply chain resilience in Panama, benefiting both nations.

Bipartisan Collaboration and Duty

• 🤝 Cabrera highlights his experience working across party lines and his ability to build consensus, a spirit he intends to bring to his role as ambassador.
• 🏛️ He recognizes his obligation to implement US policies and uphold the Constitution, serving the President, Secretary of State, and Congress.
• 🗣️ The relationship with Panama directly impacts American safety, security, and prosperity, and as ambassador, he aims to protect US citizens and promote economic interests.