The Panamanian Foreign Minister Says China's Increased Vessel Inspections and Detentions Call for Respect of Sovereignty
According to Reuters, on April 8, Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha stated that the number of inspections and detentions conducted by China on vessels flying the Panamanian flag has been increasing, which he believes is related to a court ruling in Panama regarding Hong Kong-based Hutchison Ports. He called on China to respect Panama's sovereignty.
Speaking at an event, the Panamanian foreign minister said, "Due to rulings affecting Hong Kong-based enterprises, the number of inspections and detentions of our most important merchant fleet—vessels flying the Panamanian flag—at Chinese ports has increased." He expressed hope that the rise in vessel detentions observed in March would return to normal levels.
He emphasized: "Panama respects the legitimate sovereignty of all countries; we simply ask for the same treatment in return."
At the beginning of this year, Panama's Supreme Court declared invalid the contract authorizing Hutchison Ports' Panamanian port company to operate Panama's port terminals, citing alleged "unconstitutionality." In February, the Panamanian government took over control of the Balboa and Cristóbal ports and temporarily handed them over to Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) for operations. Several days later, the Panamanian government suddenly launched searches of the offices of the Panamanian Port Company, seizing company documents and materials.
On February 27, a spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry stated that China's position on the issue of ports in Panama was clear, and it would firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises. On March 9, China's Ministry of Transport separately held talks with responsible officials from Maersk Group and MSC regarding international shipping operations.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1861949379257482/
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