WASHINGTON — Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to embark on his inaugural overseas trip next week, focusing on Central America, including a visit to Panama, a country that has faced President Donald Trump’s controversial rhetoric about attempting to regain control of the Panama Canal.

Rubio, who previously served as a senator from Florida and is the son of Cuban immigrants, will also travel to El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic, as indicated by department spokesperson Tammy Bruce on Thursday.

Bruce mentioned that the selected countries highlight Rubio’s commitment to fostering closer relationships within the region, especially regarding collaborative efforts to tackle the issue of illegal migration.

“The secretary’s visit represents a significant strategy aimed at addressing issues that are critical to revitalizing our nation and understanding the root causes of high migration rates,” Bruce stated.

Furthermore, she emphasized that this trip “conveys a message to those nations, and it should convey a message to the American public as well, reinforcing that the ‘America First’ stance is not one of isolationism, but rather an engaging approach.”

Although migration will be a primary focus during his trip, Rubio’s stop in Panama is likely to attract considerable attention due to Trump’s ongoing calls for the U.S. to reclaim authority over the canal. Trump has accused Panama of failing to uphold agreements established with former President Jimmy Carter when control of the critical waterway was relinquished by the U.S.

The President has regularly voiced concerns about perceived Chinese influence over canal management, allegations that have been rejected by Panamanian officials.

Rubio is anticipated to leave towards the end of next week, aiming to return to Washington by early February.