US, Allies Back Panama in Dispute with China Over Canal

In a significant show of solidarity, the United States, alongside a coalition of nations from Latin America and the Caribbean, has firmly backed Panama in its escalating conflict with China concerning the vital Panama Canal. This joint statement, released early Wednesday, unequivocally condemns China's recent actions targeting vessels registered under Panama's flag, labeling them as politicized maneuvers that infringe upon the sovereignty of Western Hemisphere nations.

Our collective stance, articulated alongside Bolivia, Costa Rica, Guyana, Paraguay, and Trinidad and Tobago, emphasizes that Panama is a cornerstone of our maritime trade system and must remain free from undue external pressure. We are closely monitoring China's targeted economic coercion and its detrimental impact on Panamanian-flagged ships. This is not merely a bilateral issue; it strikes at the heart of global maritime stability and the principles of free navigation.

“

Vi observerer nøje Kinas målrettede økonomiske pres og de seneste handlinger, der har påvirket skibe under panamansk flag

The situation intensified following a late January ruling by Panama's Supreme Court, which nullified port contracts operated by the Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison company at the Balboa and Cristóbal terminals. These contracts, managed by CK Hutchison's subsidiary, Panama Ports Company, had been in place since the 1990s. While Hong Kong's government expressed strong dissatisfaction, reports suggest this judicial decision followed increasing pressure from the US aimed at curbing Chinese influence within the canal's operations.

From our perspective at Berlingske, this dispute highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding critical global infrastructure. While international outlets may focus on the US-China rivalry, we recognize the profound implications for regional stability and economic integrity. Panama's role as a linchpin for global trade, with approximately five percent of the world's maritime commerce passing through its canal—used extensively by both the US and China—makes this a matter of paramount importance for our own economic interests and those of our allies. The alleged retaliatory actions by China, which Beijing denies, further underscore the need for vigilance and adherence to international norms.

“

Panama er en søjle i vores maritime handelssystem og skal forblive fri for ethvert uberettiget pres udefra.