Panama Deports 29 Colombians in U.S.-Funded Operation

Panama deported 29 Colombians in a U.S.-funded flight, marking the first such operation under a bilateral agreement. These Colombians had entered Panama illegally through the Darien jungle. Relations with Venezuela remain tense, hindering similar deportations. Panama's President, Jose Raul Mulino, aims to curtail illegal migration, cooperating with other nations for repatriation efforts.

In a significant move, Panama deported 29 Colombians on Tuesday aboard a U.S.-funded flight, the first such initiative under an agreement signed between the two nations in July.

These Colombians had illegally entered Panama via the Darien jungle, a route traversed by over 500,000 migrants heading north last year, predominantly Venezuelans.

However, Panama currently faces difficulties in deporting Venezuelans owing to strained diplomatic relations, following Panama's refusal to recognize Venezuela's recent election results. Both countries have consequently suspended diplomatic relations.

Panama's President, Jose Raul Mulino, who assumed office on July 1, has committed to halting the migration flow, a goal aligned with U.S. interests.

Initially, Mulino termed these flights as "voluntary" repatriations, but the individuals deported on Tuesday had criminal records, as per officials.

Moreover, Roger Mojico, the director of Panama's National Immigration Service, revealed discussions with nations like Ecuador and India about organizing repatriation flights.

(With inputs from agencies.)