U.S. Defense Secretary calls for cooperation against "Chinese threats" during Panama visit

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced plans to enhance military cooperation with Panama, aiming to counter perceived threats from China's influence over the Panama Canal.

During a visit to Panama City on Tuesday, Hegseth emphasized the strategic importance of the Panama Canal, through which over 40% of U.S. container traffic transits annually.

On Wednesday, he asserted that China-based companies control critical infrastructure in the canal area, potentially enabling surveillance activities that compromise the security and sovereignty of both Panama and the United States.

In response, the U.S. and Panama have agreed to deepen their military collaboration, including conducting joint training exercises and enhancing security operations to safeguard the canal's operations.