Panama pledges no tolerance for criminals taking advantage of its maritime registry

(MENAFN) Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino declared on Monday that the country will not permit criminal networks to exploit its ship registry or maritime routes, promising stronger measures to safeguard global trade and protect marine resources.

Speaking at a UN Security Council session, where Panama currently presides, Mulino highlighted the nation’s strategic maritime location and its historic responsibility to maintain secure, efficient, and sustainable shipping lanes. He noted that over 80% of global trade by volume is transported via sea, making maritime routes particularly vulnerable to transnational organized crime, including trafficking in drugs, weapons, migrants, and counterfeit goods.

Mulino emphasized that Panama has taken a firm stance on responsible maritime leadership. He said effective governance ensures vessel traceability, enhances surveillance, and prevents international criminal activity, affirming that Panama will never serve as a safe haven for those who violate international law or threaten ocean security.

He also reaffirmed Panama’s dedication to combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing through stricter sanctions, better monitoring, and global cooperation. Mulino highlighted the Panama Canal’s critical role, connecting 180 maritime routes to over 1,920 ports in 170 countries, and noted that its treaty-based neutrality guarantees free transit and stability.

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