China has formally protested Panama's decision to withdraw from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), escalating diplomatic tensions in a move that underscores global infrastructure diplomacy challenges. Assistant Foreign Minister Zhao Zhiyuan summoned Panama's ambassador to China Friday, calling the termination of the BRI cooperation agreement \"deeply regrettable\" during face-to-face talks.
The withdrawal halts momentum from six years of BRI collaboration that saw Chinese investments flow into Panama's ports, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Zhao emphasized that over 150 countries continue to benefit from BRI projects, stating: \"Attempts to reverse course contradict Panama's vital interests and the aspirations of both nations' people.\"
The rare diplomatic confrontation comes amid Beijing's claims of U.S. interference. Zhao accused Washington of \"undermining bilateral relations through pressure and threats,\" while reaffirming China's opposition to third-party involvement in Panama-China affairs.
Panama's ambassador Miguel Humberto Lecaro Barcenas acknowledged the concerns, stating he would relay China's position to his government. The Central American nation had been a strategic BRI partner since becoming the first Latin American country to join the initiative in 2017.
Analysts suggest the decision reflects Panama's balancing act between global powers, as over 5% of its GDP now comes from operations linked to the China-operated Colón Container Port. The development raises questions about how smaller economies navigate competing geopolitical interests in infrastructure financing.
Reference(s):
China lodges solemn representation over Panama's withdrawal from BRI
cgtn.com
