U.S. and Panama Strengthen Ties to Secure Canal and Counter China’s Influence
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently announced a strengthened partnership between the United States and Panama aimed at securing the Panama Canal and deterring China's growing military presence in the region. During a joint press conference with Panamanian Security Minister Juan Manuel Pino, Hegseth emphasized the strategic importance of the canal and the need to protect it from potential threats.
The collaboration comes in response to China's increasing military activities near the canal, which have raised concerns about regional security. Hegseth stated that the U.S. is committed to working closely with Panama to ensure the canal's safety and to counter any attempts by China to expand its influence in Latin America.
China has responded to these developments, asserting that its military presence in the region is for peaceful purposes and criticizing the U.S. for what it calls 'unnecessary militarization.' The situation underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China, with the Panama Canal serving as a critical point of contention.
