Rubio Criticizes China Over Panama-Flagged Ship Detentions

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio raised concerns over China’s detention of Panama-flagged vessels, calling the actions potentially destabilizing for global commerce, according to Katharine Jackson for Reuters.

The Panama Canal handles roughly 5% of global maritime trade. (Photo: Senator Marco Rubio Facebook)

The issue follows a ruling by Panama Supreme Court that invalidated a legal framework supporting a major port concession held by a subsidiary of CK Hutchison.

The US Federal Maritime Commission said it is monitoring the situation closely, noting a surge in detentions that may be linked to the court decision.

The Panama Canal handles roughly 5% of global maritime trade, making disruptions or political tensions around it a matter of international concern.