Panama
EU eyes “strategic autonomy” partnership with Latin America amid deepening rift with US
The European Union is seeking to deepen its relationship with Latin America and the Caribbean, framing the partnership as one built on "strategic autonomy" rather than as a counterbalance to China's growing influence in the region.
US deportation of asylum seekers to Panama condemned by Iran
The United States has deported 119 asylum seekers of various nationalities to Panama, including Iranian nationals who claim they were transferred without notice or deportation documentation.
Uruguay leads Americas in anti-corruption rankings as regional standards slip
Uruguay has emerged as a beacon of transparency in the Americas, securing the top position in Transparency International's latest Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) with a score of 76 points – its highest since 2012.
Trump’s USAID retreat from Latin America opens door to Chinese influence
The Trump administration's sweeping plans to axe USAID are poised to deliver a significant blow to humanitarian and development programmes across Latin America, paving the way for Beijing's increased activity.
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COMMENT: Trump's Latin America gambit pays off, but at what cost?
Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has reignited tensions between the United States and Latin America. However, recent events have allowed Trump to secure his first wins through an aggressive, transactional foreign policy.
Panama rebuffs US claim of free canal transit and cuts China ties
Panama has strongly rejected US claims that Washington secured free passage for government vessels through the Panama Canal, while withdrawing from China's Belt and Road Initiative.
US Secretary Rubio warns Panama over Chinese influence at canal amid regional tour
US Secretary of State Rubio delivered a stark warning to Panama's president on February 2 that Washington would "take measures necessary" if the Central American nation failed to curtail what the US perceives as China's growing influence.
“Latin American Davos” kicks off in Panama as region battles growth slump
Panama is hosting what organisers touted as the region's answer to Davos, as political and business leaders gather to tackle Latin America's persistent economic challenges amid growing concerns over rising poverty and middle-class stagnation.
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Climate crisis threatens Latin America's fight against hunger, UN report says
Latin America and the Caribbean face mounting risks to food security as climate change intensifies, with the region now second only to Asia in its exposure to extreme weather events, according to a joint report by UN agencies.
Mexico and Central America face pressure over US deportation push
Donald Trump's administration has launched what it calls "the largest massive deportation operation in history", dismantling key migration programmes and triggering diplomatic tensions across Latin America.
COMMENT: Is Latin America prepared for Trump 2.0?
Donald Trump’s return to the White House, heralded by his inaugural address and subsequent executive orders, has sent shockwaves across the world and Latin America, particularly in Mexico and Panama.
Trump's return to White House draws polarised Latin American response
Latin America has split over Donald Trump's White House return, with a handful of leaders rushing to embrace the new president while others eye his protectionist agenda with alarm.
Trump vows to “take back” Panama Canal in inauguration speech
Donald Trump used his inauguration address on January 20 to double down on his assertion that the United States would "take back" the Panama Canal, claiming that China had gained control of the strategic waterway.
Panama rejects Trump's military threats over canal control
Panama rejected suggestions of Chinese influence over its canal and dismissed threats of possible US military action on January 7, after President-elect Donald Trump refused to rule out force to regain control of the strategic waterway.
Latin America set for tepid growth as Trump tariff threat looms, ECLAC says
Latin America and the Caribbean face another year of lacklustre economic performance, with growth projected at just 2.2 per cent in 2024 and 2.4 per cent in 2025, according to a report by ECLAC, which also warned of risks from potential US tariffs.
Latin America urged to boost tax take and private investment to close development gap
Latin American and Caribbean nations must radically strengthen tax collection and private sector involvement to bridge a $99bn annual sustainable financing gap, according to a new report from leading international organisations.
IMF: Breaking Latin America’s cycle of low growth and violence
Violent crime and insecurity cost Latin America 3.4% of GDP annually, fueling a vicious cycle of low growth, emigration and instability. Breaking this requires bold reforms, stronger institutions and regional cooperation to tackle organised crime.
COMMENT: Trump’s White House picks signal rocky start with Latin America
Trump's return to power sets up a confrontational start with Latin America, threatening tariffs and strict border controls. Mexico pushes back firmly against US pressure, while China quietly expands its regional influence challenging US dominance.
EU and Mercosur strike historic trade deal, setting stage for political battle
The European Commission and South American trade bloc Mercosur inked a groundbreaking trade agreement on December 6, creating the world's largest free trade area amid fierce opposition from France and several other EU member states.
European resistance clouds EU-Mercosur deal prospects at Montevideo summit
South American leaders are gathering in Montevideo this week amid growing optimism that a long-awaited trade agreement with the European Union could finally be sealed, even as resistance mounts among key European nations.