The proposal on the part of the United States to train our security agencies has prompted explosive views on what that country might really be after the new approach made by Panama.
On Tuesday, President Juan Carlos Varela met with John Kelly, current head of the Department of Homeland Security in that country and former chief of the southern command.
At the meeting, in addition to congratulating him on the work done by Panama in the anti-drug fight, Kelly offered Varela to train Panamanian security forces.
Such collaboration also involves training of Panamanian agents in the fight against terrorism.
The fact has been classified as positive by some people close to the Government. However, others consider that it is an interventionist policy of the USA
In this sense, Gabriel Castillo, Secretary General of the National Confederation of Trade Union (Conusi), said that Panamanians have to disapprove the existence of militia or military agencies of USA in Panama.
"We reject any form of US intervention in our country, either through offices or military bases. Now more than ever, we must strengthen our nationality", said Castillo.
The source added that the Constitution prohibits an army in Panama. "We can least accept troops from another country to remain in our territory".
For his part, former prosecutor Neftalí Jaén expressed the view that, as a country little prepared in security matters, we should accept assistance in the fight against drugs and terrorism.
"Yes, we need this kind of help because our bodies are not able to combat gangs", said Jaen.
What he does not agree is that Panama supports international coalitions that declare war on terror, because it puts us as a target of extremist groups.
"Having declared war on ISIS was a serious mistake on the part of the Foreign Minister, because we have no way to defend ourselves against those radical groups”, said Jaen.
Meanwhile, the former director of the national police, Rolando Mirones, is worried that the information that the Government may give about these arrangements is correct and that there are no hidden issues.
"This Government has been characterized by lies and lack of transparency; but the reality is that until no situations occur that are contrary to what they say, we are compelled to believe them”, contributed Mirones.
He added that agreements of this type are common and beneficial, but should not affect national benefits. "They are helpful, provided they do not damage the Panamanian interests."
