Secretary of State Marco Rubio has embarked on his first international trip, which includes visits to El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. This move is particularly noteworthy as it deviates from the usual protocol where American Secretary of States typically prioritize other regions over Latin America at the beginning of their tenure. The last time a Secretary of State commenced their term with a comprehensive tour of Latin America like Rubio was more than a century ago. Rubio's focus on Latin America also reflects broader concerns about China's increasing influence in the region, especially in critical areas like the Panama Canal. President Trump's recent comments on retaking the Panama Canal and addressing Chinese presence at the canal have added significance to Rubio's visit. Rubio's trip is expected to provide important signals about the future of US relations with Latin America and how the US plans to navigate issues such as trade, security, and immigration in the region.