Senate would urge Panama to end Chinese management of ports

The Senate would ask Panama to review and cancel management deals and expel Chinese government officials. The requests cover Chinese state-owned businesses and China-based private businesses managing key infrastructure, including Balboa and Cristobal ports, plus Chinese government officials at ports and critical infrastructure projects. Panama would also be asked to seek management that gives ships from every nation fair access. These requests would not require Panama to act.

The Senate would urge the U.S. government to develop a shared canal control plan and a joint U.S.-Panama task force. The proposed task force would oversee canal security and operations. The partnership should follow the treaty on keeping the canal neutral and respect Panama's right to govern itself.

The Senate would urge the United States to offer technical help, financial support, and major investments in canal modernization. The requested support would help Panama manage its critical infrastructure and find alternatives to projects funded by China. These requests would not require U.S. spending or set aside money.