U.S. Ambassador addresses legislator's claims about visa warnings

U.S. Ambassador to Panama, Kevin Marino Cabrera, has responded to claims made by legislator Patsy Lee, who stated she received warnings concerning her U.S. visa. Lee had asserted that her visa had expired and she decided not to renew it, but also mentioned prior warnings from the U.S. Embassy.

Speaking to TVN Noticias, Ambassador Cabrera clarified that he does not view these actions as threats. He emphasized that the United States retains the authority to approve, deny, or revoke visas in accordance with its laws, immigration policies, and national security interests. "As I have said in the past, we do not discuss particular cases, but she has decided to speak about it, and she is within her rights. What I can tell her is that she may say it expired; however, it can be taken away before it expires. Both things are possible, but if she has doubts, she should reapply to see her results," the diplomat stated.

Ambassador Cabrera reiterated that a visa is a privilege, not a right. He stressed that decisions regarding visa issuance can be made irrespective of an individual's profession or public office. This situation arises amid ongoing discussions in Panama about the management of U.S. visas and diplomatic tensions linked to the ties between regional officials and political figures with the People's Republic of China. Lee currently chairs the Panama-China Parliamentary Friendship Group, engaging in meetings with representatives from the Asian nation.