"China detained nearly 70 Panamanian-flagged ships in March, according to the US Federal Maritime Commission, a number 「far exceeding historical norms」. In their joint statement on Tuesday, the six countries claimed that following the court ruling, China has retaliated against Panama with 「targeted economic pressure」 on Panamanian-flagged ships. 「These actions – following the decision of Panama's independent Supreme Court regarding the Balboa and Cristobal terminals – are a blatant attempt to politicise maritime trade and infringe on the sovereignty of the nations of our hemisphere,」 the signatories said."

"These intensified inspections were carried out under informal directives and appear intended to punish Panama after the transfer of Hutchison's port assets. Given that Panama‑flagged ships carry a meaningful share of US containerised trade, these actions could result in significant commercial and strategic consequences to US shipping."

"China has previously accused the US of 「bullying」 and trying to smear its reputation in Latin America, while it described the Panamanian Supreme Court ruling as 「absurd」 and 「shameful」."

"We have taken for granted that the world runs on container ships just freely sailing around the world. What we're seeing now is that states know how vulnerable shipping is. They know they can cut shipping lanes off if necessary."

"deeply concerned and stands in solidarity with Panama"