Panama City/Beijing: China has expressed deep regret over Panama’s decision to exit the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a global infrastructure development strategy. Assistant Foreign Minister Zhao Zhuyuan conveyed Beijing’s stance during a meeting with Panama’s ambassador to China, as reported by the Chinese foreign ministry on Saturday.
In a formal statement, the ministry noted that Zhao had lodged “solemn representations” concerning Panama’s withdrawal. “Beijing deeply regrets Panama’s decision,” the statement read, emphasizing that such a move was “not in the vital interests of Panama.”
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Panama’s decision to leave the BRI is seen in some circles as an attempt to realign its foreign policy amid global geopolitical tensions, potentially looking towards strengthening ties with other major powers or regional partners. The Belt and Road Initiative, launched by President Xi Jinping in 2013, aims to enhance connectivity and cooperation across countries through infrastructure projects but has faced criticism for creating debt traps for participating nations.
The Chinese official further urged Panama to “eliminate external interference and make the right decision based on the overall situation of bilateral relations and the long-term interests of the two peoples.” This rebuke comes at a time when Panama is reevaluating its international alliances and economic partnerships, particularly in light of growing concerns over debt sustainability linked to some BRI projects.
The diplomatic encounter underscores the challenges China faces in maintaining the cohesion of the BRI as countries reevaluate the benefits and costs associated with their participation. For Panama, this move might also reflect internal political dynamics or a strategic pivot in foreign relations strategy.
Panama had joined the BRI in 2017, shortly after establishing diplomatic ties with China, which included significant investments in projects like the Panama Canal expansion. However, recent years have seen increasing scrutiny over such investments, both domestically within Panama and internationally.
The reaction from China signals the importance Beijing places on maintaining its strategic initiatives like the BRI, which it sees as crucial for its global influence and economic strategy. Meanwhile, Panama’s government has yet to issue an official response to China’s remarks, leaving observers to speculate on the next steps in this bilateral relationship.
Key Points:
Panama’s BRI Exit: Panama has decided to leave China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
China’s Regret: China, through Assistant Foreign Minister Zhao Zhuyuan, expressed deep regret over Panama’s decision.
Diplomatic Response: Zhao met with Panama’s ambassador to China, lodging “solemn representations” regarding the withdrawal.
Statement from China: China stated that Panama’s exit from the BRI is “not in the vital interests of Panama.”
Urge to Reconsider: China urged Panama to “make the right decision” by considering the long-term interests of both nations and to eliminate external interference.
Context of Decision: Panama’s move could be part of a broader reassessment of foreign policy, potentially due to concerns over debt sustainability or geopolitical alignment.
BRI’s Importance: The reaction highlights the significance China attaches to the BRI for its global economic and strategic influence.
Panama’s Silence: As of the report, there has been no official response from Panama to China’s comments.
