China's permanent representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, forcefully rebutted U.S. allegations regarding the Panama Canal during a high-level UN Security Council debate on maritime security this week. The diplomatic clash highlights growing tensions between the two powers over global trade routes and regional stability.
Fu condemned what he called "unfounded accusations" by U.S. delegates, stating: "China has always respected Panama's sovereignty over the canal and recognizes its status as a permanently neutral international waterway." He accused Washington of fabricating narratives to justify attempts to control the strategic passage, emphasizing China's opposition to "economic coercion and bullying."
The envoy linked the Panama Canal dispute to broader maritime security concerns, alleging U.S. militarization of the South China Sea through missile deployments and frequent military exercises. "By flexing muscles near other countries' borders, Washington aims to stir trouble for geopolitical gain," Fu asserted, characterizing U.S. actions as manifestations of "hegemony and Cold War mentality."
Fu further criticized the U.S. for not ratifying the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea while "exploiting international seabed resources" and threatening canal operations. The remarks come as global shipping chokepoints face increasing scrutiny amid supply chain disruptions.
Analysts suggest the exchange reflects competing visions for maritime governance, with China positioning itself as a defender of multilateralism against perceived U.S. unilateralism. The debate underscores how infrastructure projects and sea lanes have become focal points in great-power diplomacy.
