The removal of the plug separating Culebra Cut from the new Pacific Access Channel began on December 24. After the blasting process is concluded, Panama Canal Dredging Division will begin the removal of the entire plug, uniting the new locks in the Pacific with Gatun Lake.

The Panama Canal's Expansion will maximize country's strategic location as an international maritime hub at the center of global trade.

Panama's connectivity has been enhanced by ports at both oceans, an air transportation hub with connections to more than 30 destinations in 20 countries of the continent, an inter-oceanic railroad, a telecommunications network with the latest technology, and a financial and commercial services center of international quality.

Watch: Panama Canal’s New Pacific Access Channel Meets Culebra Cut