Panama's president has directed the foreign minister to avoid discussing U.S. allegations of Chinese influence over the Panama Canal with the visiting head of U.S. Southern Command. This follows a statement from the U.S. embassy indicating that Adm. Alvin Holsey's visit would include talks on protecting the canal from Chinese Communist Party influence.
The Chinese Embassy in Panama refuted these claims, stating that China has never been involved in the canal's management or operations, labeling the allegations as "pure lies." It accused the U.S. of attempting to disrupt China-Panama relations, asserting such efforts will not succeed.
In a press briefing, Panama's president expressed frustration over the ongoing issue, emphasizing that discussing false claims would only perpetuate unnecessary fascination with China's alleged control. He emphasized the importance of focusing on real bilateral matters between Panama and the U.S.
Panama has a team in Washington working to influence perceptions and media narratives concerning the canal. During his visit, Adm. Holsey met with the canal's administrator to discuss its strategic importance, with China's alleged influence and Panama's role in U.S. immigration control as top priorities.
Concerns from the U.S. center on a Hong Kong-based consortium operating port facilities at the canal's ends. Panama manages the canal and is auditing the consortium's extended contract. The U.S., which built the canal in the early 1900s, transferred control to Panama in 1999 under a treaty signed by President Carter.
Source: AP News