Vice Minister of Multilateral Affairs Calls to Halt 'Coercive Measures' in Maritime Trade

Panama has intensified its diplomatic efforts, raising its voice against international pressures that are impacting its vast merchant fleet. The nation has unequivocally rejected what it terms "coercive measures" that run counter to the established order of global commerce, asserting its right to fair treatment and unimpeded navigation for its vessels.

Carlos Guevara Mann, Panama's Vice Minister of Multilateral Affairs and Cooperation, articulated the country's firm position, stating, "Panama has very firmly and forcefully rejected any discriminatory measures that may be taken against our fleets and has demanded respect and treatment in accordance with the main guidelines and statements of the world's commercial system." He urged other nations to uphold international order and cease applying actions that undermine the spirit of free and open international trade.

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Panama has very firmly and forcefully rejected any discriminatory measures that may be taken against our fleets and has demanded respect and treatment in accordance with the main guidelines and statements of the world's commercial system, we hope that countries will be consistent with that international order, that coercive measures that are contrary to that spirit of international trade will cease to be applied and that trade can unfold in a normal way, without obstacles from some countries that intend to take unjustified reprisals.

This firm declaration by Panama comes at a critical juncture, with heightened tensions in vital maritime chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz. Recent incidents involving ships flying the Panamanian flag in this strategic waterway have underscored the precariousness of international maritime security. Panama has actively used international forums to voice its protest, positioning itself as a leader in advocating against such detrimental practices.

Panama's maritime authority has also issued advisories to its flagged vessels, recommending they avoid the Strait of Hormuz following specific incidents. These include a report of shots fired at the container ship "Euphoria" by unidentified vessels and the interception of the "MSC Francesca" by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Panama's proactive diplomatic engagement and its role in championing maritime security reflect its significant stake in global trade and its commitment to ensuring the safety and freedom of navigation for its globally recognized fleet.

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Panama has raised its protest in international forums very prominently, has led the pronouncements of these forums against these types of measures that are evidently contrary to international navigation.