Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, the United States, Bolivia, Costa Rica and Paraguay have come out in support of Panama’s sovereignty, amid what they have described as “increased economic pressures” from China against the Latin American country.

China reportedly detained 70 Panamanian-flagged ships in March in retaliation to a Court ruling that saw a Hong Kong-based conglomerate losing control of two ports in the Panama Canal.

In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, the Governments of Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, the U.S, Boliva, Costa Rica and Paraguay said they were closely monitoring “China’s targeted economic pressure” against Panama.

“We are monitoring with vigilance China’s targeted economic pressure and the recent actions that have affected Panama-flagged vessels,” the countries said.

Stating that the freedom of the region is non-negotiable, the allies explained that the actions followed a decision by Panama’s Supreme Court regarding the Balboa and Cristóbal terminals.

The Panamanian Court back in January ruled that the contracts that allowed a subsidiary of CK Hutchison to administer the two ports were null and void. The ruling brought an end to the decades old agreement on the grounds that it was “unconstitutional.”

Guyana, Trinidad and the US together with the Latin American countries said the actions of China are “a blatant attempt to politicize maritime trade and infringe on the sovereignty of the nations of our hemisphere.”

Noting that Panama is a pillar of the Region’s maritime trading system, the countries said the Latin American country must remain free from any undue external pressure. 

“Any attempts to undermine Panama’s sovereignty are a threat to us all,” the countries said, adding that they stand in solidarity with Panama. 

“Through our renewed commitment to peace, security, and Hemispheric cooperation, we remain dedicated to facing all threats to ensure the Americas remain a region of freedom, security, and prosperity,” the countries said.

But during a press conference on Wednesday, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that the allegations leveled against China were “completely unfounded” and represented a “distortion of facts.”

“Who exactly exerted long forcible control of the Panama Canal, invaded Panama and trampled on Panama’s sovereignty and dignity? Who exactly is coveting the Panal Canal, attempt to own an international waterway that should be permanently neutral, and disrespecting the sovereignty of countries in the region? The answer is rather clear. It is the United States that has framed normal affairs concerning relevant terminals as issues about politics and security. It is the United States that has been making pretenses and slandering others with rumors,” Jian told reporters.

According to the spokesperson, the competent authority in China conducted routine inspections of vessels in accordance with laws and regulations. It was said that China’s position on the Panamanian ports issue is clear, and China will firmly defend its legitimate rights and interests.

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