US Ambassador Strengthens Panama Ties, Challenges Chinese Influence

Kevin Cabrera, the newly appointed U.S. ambassador to Panama, has pledged to strengthen bilateral relations while prioritizing efforts to counter what he describes as China's harmful influence in the region, particularly around the strategically vital Panama Canal. Cabrera's stance aligns with previous criticisms from the Trump administration and highlights collaboration on regional security issues including drug trafficking. His comments prompted a response from the Chinese embassy in Panama, which dismissed the accusations and defended China-Panama cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. This diplomatic tension coincides with Panama's ongoing investigation into a contract awarded to a Hong Kong-based firm, intensifying scrutiny of China's commercial activities in the country. The U.S.-Panama partnership was further reinforced by a new security memorandum aimed at enhancing regional stability and safeguarding the Panama Canal. Overall, Ambassador Cabrera's remarks signal a firm U.S. strategic pivot to counterbalance China's growing presence in Central America.