On February 5, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth engaged in a phone call with Panamanian President José Raul Mulino. During the conversation, both parties acknowledged the robust relationship and shared security interests between the United States and Panama, particularly concerning the safeguarding of the Panama Canal.

Secretary Hegseth and President Mulino agreed to enhance cooperation between the U.S. military and Panama's security forces. They also emphasized the growing collaboration between the United States, including the Department of Defense, and the Panama Canal Authority.

President Mulino extended an invitation for Secretary Hegseth to visit Panama in the future. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties further and ensure joint defense efforts regarding external threats to the Canal.

Department of Defense Spokesman John Ullyot provided this information in a readout following their discussion.