US and Panama ink agreement to tackle irregular migration

US backs Panama's efforts for 'swift, humane' repatriation of migrants without legal basis to stay, says White House.

The US and Panama signed a memorandum of understanding Monday designed to “jointly reduce the number of migrants being cruelly smuggled through the Darien (Gap), usually en route to the United States.”

The US will support Panama’s efforts to begin the "swift, safe and humane" repatriation of migrants who do not have a legal basis to remain in Panama, White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement.

"By returning such individuals to their country of origin, we will help deter irregular migration in the region and at our southern border and halt the enrichment of malign smuggling networks that prey on vulnerable migrants," Watson added.

The Darien Gap consists of 165 miles (265 kilometers) of swampy jungle that connects Panama and Colombia to the south. More than half a million people traversed the corridor last year.

Separately, US President Joe Biden on Monday congratulated Jose Raul Mulino on his inauguration as president of the Republic of Panama.

Noting that Panama and the US enjoy "long-standing and deep" ties, Biden said he looks forward to continuing the strong bilateral partnership to promote good governance, advance inclusive economic growth and address irregular migration.

During his campaign, Mulino promised to shut down the Darien Gap, which has become a corridor for migrants trying to reach the United States through Central America and Mexico.