Panama's Assurance: China Lacks Influence Over Panama Canal

With Panama's recent removal from the European Union's roster of high-risk areas due to inadequacies in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing strategies, the nation is eager to forge closer ties with the EU. Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez, Panama's Foreign Minister, emphasized the country's commitment to enhancing its partnership with the EU, reiterating Panama's autonomy over the Panama Canal and dismissing any Chinese sway in its operations. Martínez-Acha Vásquez discussed these developments in an interview with Joumanna Bercetche on the 'Bloomberg: The Pulse' program.

Strengthening International Relations

In addition to engaging more with the European bloc, Panama is also focusing on strengthening its relationship with the United States. The government underscores that the strategic waterway, a critical global shipping passage, is exclusively managed by Panama, and any insinuations of Chinese influence are unfounded.