China derides U.S.
CBSJAN 28
Panama Quits China's Belt and Road
Above: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (C) walks next to Panama Canal Authority Administrator Ricaurte Vasquez (C-R) during a tour at the Miraflores locks of the Panama Canal in Panama City on Feb. 2, 2025. Image copyright: Mark Schiefelbein/Contributor/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-China narrative
The US' threats against Panama reveal a control agenda, not concern for neutrality. Rubio's coercion contrasts with China's Belt and Road Initiative, which has shown mutual benefits through professional training programs, infrastructure, and trade. China's engagement in Panama has always been about partnership, not dominance, unlike the US' historical interventionism.
Anti-China narrative
The US rightly highlighted China's strategic maneuvers in Panama, from military ties to economic influence. Panama's decision to sever ties with Beijing was also necessary to protect its national security and sovereignty. Now, with China's influence diminished, the US and Panama should focus on cooperation, transparency, and reinforcing their historical partnership for mutual benefit.