China has formally protested Panama's demolition of a Chinese cultural monument, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian calling the act 'deeply regrettable' during a December 29, 2025 press briefing. The incident marks the latest diplomatic challenge in cross-Pacific relations this year.
'We urge Panamanian authorities to thoroughly investigate this matter, rectify the local government's improper actions, and mitigate negative impacts on bilateral ties,' Lin stated. The monument's destruction comes amid heightened sensitivity to cultural heritage preservation in international diplomacy.
While details about the monument's historical significance remain undisclosed, analysts suggest such symbols carry particular weight in China's cultural diplomacy efforts. The protest follows recent efforts to strengthen economic cooperation between the two nations since establishing diplomatic relations in 2017.
Observers note that Panama's strategic position as a global trade hub makes this development particularly significant for business communities monitoring Asia-Latin America connectivity. The Chinese mainland government has not indicated whether economic consequences might follow.
