Panama Grants Free Passage To U.S. Navy, Ends Belt and Road Ties With China

Panama has agreed to offer free passage to U.S. Navy ships after a visit by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who warned the country of consequences unless it took action against what the U.S. sees as growing Chinese influence over the vital waterway.

During his visit on Sunday, Rubio met with Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino, where he expressed concerns about China’s expanding presence in the region and its involvement with the canal.

Rubio stated that the US could take “necessary measures” to protect its rights under the Panama Canal Treaty if Panama did not make immediate changes.

After the meeting, Mulino assured Rubio that US Navy vessels would now receive free passage through the canal. The Panama Canal Authority also stated that it would optimise “transit priority” for US Navy Ships.

While Panama’s officials did not immediately confirm the details of the free passage offer, the statement from the canal authority was clear about giving priority to US vessels.

These measures are taken after US President Donald Trump’s repeated complaints about Pana…

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