Beijing (TDI): Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Zhao Zhiyuan met with Panamanian Ambassador to China Miguel Humberto Lecaro Barcenas on Friday, lodging a serious representation over Panama’s recent announcement to cease the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Belt and Road cooperation.
Zhao said that the Chinese side deeply regrets Panama’s recent announcement.
Zhao stressed that under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework, China-Panama cooperation has grown rapidly across different fields, delivering tangible benefits to Panama and its people.
Over 150 countries actively participate in BRI, with the results benefiting people from various nations including Panama.
Reversing course on the BRI and disregarding the expectations of both countries does not align with Panama’s fundamental interests, Zhao said.
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Zhao added that China respects Panama’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, advocates for the equality of all nations regardless of size, and sticks to mutual respect, and adherence to commitments.
China firmly opposes the US’ arbitrary actions to undermine China-Panama ties and to tarnish and disrupt the collaboration in jointly building the BRI through pressure and threats, Zhao said.
He said that the China-Panama relationship is not aimed at any third nation and should not be interfered with by any third party.
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It is hoped that the Panamanian side will steer clear of external interference and make the right decision based on the overall situation of bilateral ties and the long-term interests of the two peoples, the assistant minister said.
Lecaro said that Panama values its ties with China and will report the situation to its government.
