U.S.-Panama Deportation Pact: A New Migration Strategy

The U.S. began deporting 360 individuals of various nationalities to Panama, as agreed with Panama's government. The first group of 119 deportees has arrived, with more to follow. This pact involves a transfer to shelters near the Darien Gap. Talks may expand this agreement to include Venezuelan, Colombian, and Ecuadorean nationals.

The United States has initiated the deportation of 360 individuals to Panama under a bilateral agreement. President Jose Raul Mulino of Panama confirmed that the first flight brought in 119 deportees from countries such as Afghanistan, China, and India. Two more flights are expected soon to complete the agreement.

These individuals will be housed in shelters near the Darien Gap before repatriation. This move is part of a cooperative effort with the U.S. government, a strategy disclosed at a press conference by President Mulino. The Department of Homeland Security, however, has yet to comment on the development.

Mulino highlighted that discussions with the U.S. could expand the agreement to include further nationalities, aligning with the initiative to lessen migrant flow through the perilous Darien Gap. Panama's Deputy Minister for Security noted a 90% reduction in migrant crossings in January, attributing the success to bilateral cooperation.