International pressure over measures taken by China against vessels flying the Panamanian flag continues to grow. After U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that "recent measures by China against Panamanian-flagged vessels raise great concern over the use of economic instruments to undermine the rule of law in Panama, a sovereign nation and a vital partner for world trade," several countries have publicly expressed their support, raising the diplomatic tone against what they see as actions affecting global maritime trade.
Among the new statements, Costa Rica stands out, whose foreign ministry expressed its "deep concern and firmest condemnation" of the inspections and delays it described as arbitrary and unjustified in Chinese ports. "Arbitrary delays and detentions of Panamanian vessels in Chinese ports are unacceptable, they represent clear pressure and put world trade at risk."
Support has also extended beyond Latin America. Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, stated: "Israel supports Panama's clear position: maritime enforcement must stay fair, technical, and free from political pressure." "Disproportionate detentions risk global trade, costs, and trust. Upholding the rule of law and freedom of navigation is in everyone's interest."
Paraguay's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also raised its voice in support of Panama: "Paraguay expresses its firmest condemnation of China's commercial harassment of Panama."
These statements came two days after Rubio warned that the restrictions imposed by China on Panamanian vessels could increase logistics costs, affect supply chains, and weaken confidence in the international trading system. Ukraine also joined the chorus of support for Panama, emphasizing the importance of protecting sovereignty, global trade stability, and respect for the rule of law in the face of economic pressure. "Ukraine stands firmly with Panama in upholding its sovereignty and the right to independent judicial decisions. Any attempts at economic pressure on Panama-flagged vessels undermine global trade stability. Freedom of navigation and the rule of law must be protected."
