US Congressman Carlos Gimenez voiced his worry over Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino's decision to halt a US-led port project in Isla Margarita, Panama. Gimenez highlighted concerns about undermining US strategic interests and potentially benefiting China.
President Mulino stated that the Panamanian Maritime Authority's board is reviewing the project and will announce decisions later. He emphasized that the project, as currently structured, will not proceed under his administration, suggesting a new bidding process.
The port project is being developed by Panama Colon Container Port Inc. (PCCP) and United Crown Construction Inc., situated at the Atlantic entrance of the Panama Canal.
Strained diplomatic relations between the US and Panama under President Trump, partly stemming from alleged Chinese influence on the Panama Canal, form the backdrop of this conflict.