China’s ambassador to the United Nations (UN), Fu Cong, described as regrettable Panama’s decision to withdraw from the Silk Road Initiative, an economic project promoted by Beijing.

Fu Cong stressed that this measure not only affects cooperation between nations, but also responds to a defamation campaign against the initiative.

The Chinese diplomat defended the Silk Road as an economic platform whose purpose is to promote cooperation between countries, especially those of the global south, without any type of hidden political agenda.

“Behind the Silk Road no political agenda is hidden. It is, above all, an economic initiative that seeks to promote development and mutual collaboration among nations,” said Fu Cong.

The ambassador also rejected the accusations from the United States, the United States and other Western countries, who have questioned the project under the premise that China seeks to expand its political and geopolitical influence through the initiative.

Panama’s decision to abandon the project, which had been announced through an official statement, marks a significant turn in the country’s relationship with China, however, the position also reflects the growing concern in some sectors about the possible effects of this collaboration on international relations and the economic development of the country.