China expressed hope that Panama would resist external influence and make an independent decision regarding its participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated on Friday. His remarks came in response to reports that Panama might withdraw from the BRI.
Speaking at a routine press briefing, Lin criticized the United States for allegedly attempting to discredit and undermine Belt and Road cooperation through pressure tactics. He also expressed deep regret over Panama’s decision not to renew its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on BRI cooperation with China.
Lin emphasized that the BRI is a platform for economic collaboration, benefiting more than 150 countries, including over 20 in Latin America. He noted that China-Panama cooperation under the BRI has yielded positive results in recent years.
“China hopes that Panama will consider the broader context of bilateral relations and the long-term well-being of both nations, remain free from external interference, and make the right choice,” Lin concluded.
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