Panama Defies China Over Canal Port Ruling, President Mulino Stands Firm

• Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino stated Panama would not be threatened by China regarding a legal dispute over Panama Canal port operations.
• The dispute stems from Panama's Supreme Court ruling a concession held by a subsidiary of Hong Kong's CK Hutchison Holdings as unconstitutional.
• The court's decision is seen as a win for former US President Donald Trump's efforts to limit Chinese influence over the strategic waterway.
• China warned Panama would pay a "heavy price," while CK Hutchison's subsidiary initiated arbitration proceedings against Panama.
• Mulino confirmed that Panama's Maritime Authority will work with Panama Ports Company during a transitional phase, after which AP Moller-Maersk will operate the ports temporarily.