Panama minister warns China against using court ruling to pressure merchant fleet
Javier Martinez-Acha Vasquez, Panama's foreign minister, expressed concerns on Monday regarding a recent court ruling that could impact the nation's merchant fleet. As seven National Assembly members commence a trip to China for a parliamentary friendship initiative, Martinez-Acha urged them to uphold Panama's constitutional values while respecting China's sovereignty. The delegation, including Patsy Lee and Jairo Salazar, will meet Chinese officials and visit Huawei Technologies, attending the Canton Fair before returning on May 10. His comments arise amid an increase in ship detentions due to a Chinese enforcement effort.
Key facts
- Javier Martinez-Acha Vasquez is Panama's foreign minister.
- He spoke on Monday about the delegation's trip to China.
- Seven lawmakers from Panama's National Assembly are traveling to China.
- The delegation includes Patsy Lee, Jairo Salazar, Arquesio Arias, Flor Brenes, Gertrudis Rodriguez, Didiano Pinilla, and Roberto Archibold.
- The delegation returns on May 10.
- The agenda includes visiting Huawei Technologies' headquarters and attending the Canton Fair.
- Martinez-Acha said a court ruling must not be used for economic coercion against Panama's merchant fleet.
- Ship detentions are mounting due to China's crackdown.
Entities
Institutions
- Panama's National Assembly
- Huawei Technologies
- Canton Fair
Locations
- Panama
- China
- Beijing