China criticizes US “coercion” after Panama ended key infrastructure deal with Beijing following pressure from the US. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian and Assistant Foreign Minister Zhao Zhiyuan expressed disapproval of US tactics. Panama’s decision to walk away was seen as a concession to the US over the canal. US Secretary of State Rubio warned Panama about Chinese influence in the canal area. Despite pressure, Panama’s Mulino rejected discussing ownership of the waterway vital to global trade.
Some believe Panama may compromise by reevaluating the contract for operation of the canal on both sides. The drop in water levels in the canal due to drought has caused delays, further drawing complaints from Trump. China’s Belt and Road Initiative has brought participation from over 150 countries, but China did not provide examples of its success in Panama.
China urged Panama to consider the long-term bilateral relationship, resist external interference, and make the right decision. The Belt and Road Initiative aims to strengthen ties with countries through infrastructure projects. The US-China tensions over the Panama Canal highlight the complex geopolitics at play in the region. Panama’s strategic location and the control of the canal remain key points of contention between the two superpowers.
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