US SR31

Senate expresses concern about Chinese influence in Panamanian ports, particularly the ports of Balboa and Cristobal currently managed by Hutchison Ports, a Hong Kong-based operator

Calls on Panama to terminate agreements allowing Chinese state-owned or China-based entities to manage strategic infrastructure and expel all PRC officials from Panamanian ports and critical infrastructure projects

Urges the U.S. to provide technical, financial, and strategic support to help Panama assert sovereignty over its infrastructure and reduce dependence on Chinese-affiliated entities

Proposes establishing a framework for collaborative U.S.-Panama operational control of the Panama Canal and creating a joint task force to oversee canal security and operations

References the 1977 Neutrality Treaty, which grants the U.S. the right to act unilaterally if necessary to defend the canal's neutrality and ensure it remains open, neutral, secure, and accessible