China criticized Panama for not renewing a vital infrastructure agreement with Beijing, alleging US coercion following Washington's threats to reclaim the Panama Canal. The decision was seen as a concession to the US after Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Panama about Chinese influence in the canal area. Panama, however, denies any agreement with the US regarding the canal's operation.
Beijing — China on Friday lashed out at what it called U.S. 'coercion' after Panama declined to renew a key infrastructure agreement with Beijing following Washington's threat to take back the Panama Canal. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a briefing that China 'firmly opposes the U.S. smearing and undermining the Belt and Road cooperation through means of pressure and coercion.
' Later Thursday, asked about Mulino's remarks, Rubio said he wasn't confused about his discussions with leaders in Panama, adding: 'I respect very much the fact that Panama has a process of laws and procedures that they need to follow.'Why would Trump want Greenland and the Panama Canal?'The United States has a treaty obligation to protect the Panama Canal if it comes under attack,' Rubio said.
CHINA PANAMA US BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE PANAMA CANAL
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