The United States and several allies have issued a joint statement supporting Panama’s sovereignty amid rising tensions over the Panama Canal.<\/p>\n
According to the statement, the countries expressed concern about China’s actions affecting Panama-flagged ships and maritime trade. <\/p>\n
“We are vigilantly monitoring China’s targeted economic pressure and recent actions that have impacted Panama-flagged vessels,” the statement said. <\/p>\n
“Panama is a pillar of our maritime trade system, and as such it must remain free from any undue external pressure.”<\/p>\n
The dispute follows a ruling by Panama’s Supreme Court earlier this year that invalidated a long-standing concession allowing the Hong Kong-based company to operate key ports at both ends of the canal.<\/p>\n
The decision came amid growing pressure from Washington to limit Chinese influence around the strategic waterway, which carries about five percent of global maritime trade.<\/p>\n
China responded by criticizing the joint statement as a State Department spokesperson said it was “completely baseless and misleading” and accused the United States of politicizing port operations.<\/p>\n
“China also urges relevant countries not to be misled or exploited by evil forces,” the spokesperson said.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.thenews.com.pk\/assets\/uploads\/reporters\/8656_031619_reporter.jpg\")
<\/p>\nAt The News Digital, our editors combine an understanding of entertainment with global reporting expertise. Expect authoritative coverage of royals, Hollywood and trending topics, as well as clear, credible updates on science, politics, sports and business. We keep it accurate, current and easy to understand, so you can stay ahead.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n