Panama president defends judiciary after China slams canal port concession ruling

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Igor PatrickFebruary 4, 2026 at 05:52 PM

AI Summary

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Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino defended his country's judiciary after China criticized a Supreme Court ruling that voided a port concession held by Panama Ports Company, a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison. The ruling, issued last week, declared the company's right to operate the Balboa and Cristobal ports at the Panama Canal unconstitutional. China's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office condemned the decision. Mulino emphasized that Panama is governed by the rule of law and that Supreme Court rulings must be respected domestically and internationally. He stated the decision falls within the judiciary's constitutional authority and rejected any suggestion of government interference. The Foreign Ministry is expected to issue a statement and adopt corresponding decisions.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States ×230% Foreign Ministry 40% Macau Affairs Office 50% CK Hutchison 60% Panama Canal ×270% Hong Kong ×270% Panama Ports Company 70% Supreme Court ×380% China ×280% Jose Raul Mulino ×390% Panama ×4100%

Keywords

port concession 90% panama 90% supreme court ruling 80% panama canal 80% judiciary 70% china 70% rule of law 60% constitutional law 60% ck hutchison 50%