The answer would be an explorer
The United States wanted a method of export and transportation to and from the United States originally when Panama was a part of Colombia. This is why they helped Panama's revolution to become its own independent country. If they had good relations and Panama went as planned, the US could finally build the canal they wanted so badly. The canal now allows transportation of many of the goods we purchase and use today here in the United States.
Best answer is a. it wanted to spread its markets for trade really.
