The Salvadoran government has made an urgent appeal to Panama and its civil society leaders for the creation of a “humanitarian corridor.” This plea, issued on Sunday, aims to assist Salvadoran transporters who have been trapped in Panama due to ongoing road blockades. These blockades were initiated in response to Panama’s controversial deal with Canadian mining firm First Quantum Minerals.
In a statement released on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, the Salvadoran Foreign Ministry emphasized the need for immediate action to allow their stranded nationals to exit Panama. For over a month, the Salvadoran Embassy in Panama has been providing food and health support to an undisclosed number of cargo truck drivers affected by the route closures.
Despite efforts, a resolution for the drivers, who remain stranded on Panamanian soil, has yet to be found, as per the Salvadoran Foreign Ministry. The protests and blockades in Panama, which began on October 20 following the congressional approval of a 40-year operational contract with First Quantum Minerals, have led to significant disruptions, including shortages of basic goods and economic losses exceeding 1.7 billion dollars, according to local business associations.
In addition to these challenges, the Supreme Court of Panama has recently started deliberations on the alleged unconstitutionality of the contract with the Canadian mining company.