The United States and Panama signed an agreement strengthening the military relationship between both countries in the face of China‘s perceived influence in the country.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who is currently in Panama for the first time since his confirmation, signed the agreement that will allow the U.S. to go “first and free through the Panama Canal” on Wednesday.
China has played a leading role during his visit this week.
“President Trump has made it clear that the Panama Canal and the canal areas cannot and will not be controlled by China. We are working closely with our partners in Panama to secure the canal,” Hegseth said during his opening remarks at the 2025 Central American Security Conference in Panama City on Wednesday. “China’s
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