José Raúl Mulino was sworn in as Panama’s next president with a focus on slowing irregular migration through the Darien Gap. More than half a million people crossed the corridor last year, mostly from Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and China. Mulino has vowed to halt illegal migration, with a commitment from the U.S. to cover the costs of repatriating migrants who enter Panama illegally.
Mulino has expressed a strong commitment to ending irregular immigration through the Darien Gap, with the U.S. expected to help cover deportation costs. His efforts mark a significant shift from the previous administration’s policies of assisting migrants in crossing the country quickly and orderly.
In addition to immigration, Mulino will also need to address issues related to the Panama Canal, the country’s budget deficit, and youth unemployment. He criticized the outgoing administration for leaving a struggling economy and high public debt, pledging to focus on improving the lives of ordinary Panamanians.
Mulino’s presidency comes at a crucial time for Panama, with challenges ranging from migration to economic recovery. His priority will be to address the root causes of migration while also addressing other pressing issues like youth unemployment and infrastructure development.
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