Panama Was the First “Weak Link” in Trump’s Plan to Take on China’s Belt and Road Initiative

Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino speaks during his weekly press conference at the presidential palace in Panama City on December 26, 2024. ARNULFO FRANCO / AFP

The Chinese government lashed out against the United States for forcing Panama to withdraw from Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian told reporters on Friday that China “firmly opposes the U.S. smearing and undermining the Belt and Road cooperation through means of pressure and coercion.”

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by Eric Olander

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