As tensions between the US and China escalate over the Panama Canal, Beijing fires back at US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s vow to keep the waterway secure.
China Fires Back After US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Vows to Keep Panama Canal Secure
The Chinese government has fired back after ‘We will keep the canal secure’ , calling into question who represents the real threat to the waterway.
With a population of over 1.4 billion, China is the world's most populous country.
Its economy has experienced rapid growth, becoming the second-largest in the world after the United States.
Historically, China was a major player in global trade and commerce during the Silk Road era.
Today, it continues to play a significant role in international relations, with its Belt and Road Initiative aiming to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through infrastructure development.
Hegseth made his comments during a visit to Panama, where he met with President José Raúl Mulino and reiterated the US commitment to keeping the canal secure. However, the Chinese government has responded by asking if it is China that poses a threat, rather than the other way around.
The tensions between the two countries are centered on the Panama Canal, which was built by the US in the early 20th century and was transferred to Panama in 1999 under a treaty signed by ‘Jimmy Carter‘ . The canal is a critical waterway for international trade and commerce, and both the US and China have interests in its operation.
The Panama Canal is a 50-mile (80 km) long waterway connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, crossing the Isthmus of Panama in Central America.
Constructed between 1881 and 1914, it revolutionized global trade by reducing travel time between 'Europe' and 'Asia' by over 7,800 miles (12,500 km).
The canal has three sets of locks: Gatun Locks on the Atlantic side, Miraflores Locks on the Pacific side, and Pedro Miguel Locks in between.
It operates as a toll-based system, with ships paying fees for passage.
Hegseth’s comments were seen as a response to concerns raised by ‘the cost of using the canal’ and the influence of Chinese companies on its operations. However, the Chinese government has denied any involvement in the canal’s operations and has accused the US of using ‘blackmail’ to further its own interests.
The Panama Canal: A Critical Waterway for International Trade
The Panama Canal is a vital waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, allowing ships to travel between the two oceans without having to circumnavigate South America. The canal is operated by the Panama Canal Authority, which is responsible for its maintenance and management.
The US has a significant interest in the canal, as it provides a critical link between the US East Coast and the Asian market. However, China’s growing economic influence in the region has raised concerns about the country’s intentions regarding the canal.
The US and Panama’s Commitment to Keeping the Canal Secure
The US and Panama have committed to keeping the Panama Canal secure, with both countries working together to strengthen their defense and security cooperation. Hegseth’s comments were seen as a reaffirmation of this commitment, but the Chinese government has responded by questioning who represents the real threat to the canal.
Despite the tensions, there are efforts underway to improve cooperation between the US and China on issues related to the Panama Canal. However, the road ahead will be challenging, and it remains to be seen how these efforts will play out in practice.
