Panama to Exit China's Belt and Road Initiative After U.S. Pressure

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to Panama highlights tensions over Chinese influence in the Panamakanal and U.S. demands for operational changes.

Panama's President José Raúl Mulino announced the country will not renew its participation in China's Belt and Road Initiative, citing U.S. concerns over Chinese influence on the Panamakanal.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the current situation as 'unacceptable,' warning of potential U.S. actions if changes are not made to reduce Chinese involvement in canal operations.
The Hong Kong-based company Hutchison Ports PPC, which operates terminals on both sides of the canal, has raised concerns about potential Chinese government influence despite being privately owned.
Protests erupted in Panama City during Rubio's visit, with demonstrators rejecting U.S. demands and asserting Panama's sovereignty over the canal.
The U.S. and Panama agreed to form a technical working group to address American concerns, including the possibility of increased U.S. business involvement in canal operations.