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After intense negotiations and pressure, the Carter-Torrijos Treaties in 1977 resulted in the eventual relinquishment of U.S. control over the canal, culminating in a complete handover to Panama in 1999. This transition marked a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape, particularly in how Latin America viewed U.S. interventionist policies. Since then, the canal has transformed into a source of national pride and economic vitality for Panama, contributing significantly to its GDP.