US Defense Secretary and the President of Panama have reached an agreement to enhance military collaboration

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino reached an agreement to enhance collaboration between the U.S. military and Panama’s security forces during a phone conversation on Wednesday, as reported by the Pentagon, following a recent dispute regarding the Panama Canal.

A Pentagon spokesperson noted, “They acknowledged the strong partnership and numerous security interests shared by the United States and Panama, including the protection of the Panama Canal.”

Following discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier this week, Mulino indicated that Panama’s extensive agreement to participate in China’s Belt and Road initiative will not be extended and may be concluded ahead of schedule.