By| Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News|
Maritime Sovereignty: Guyana, US, and Allies Back Panama Against China
PANAMA CITY, PANAMA — In a major diplomatic show of force, Guyana has joined the United States and several hemispheric allies—including Bolivia, Costa Rica, Paraguay, and Trinidad and Tobago—in a joint statement defending Panama’s sovereignty. The coalition is warning against what they describe as “targeted economic pressure” from Beijing following a landmark legal ruling in Panama.
- The Conflict: In late January, Panama’s Supreme Court invalidated the concession for CK Hutchison’s Panama Ports Company, which has operated the critical Balboa and Cristobal terminals since 1997.
- The Retaliation: Following the ruling, there has been a surge in the detention and inspection of Panama-flagged vessels in Chinese ports. The joint statement characterized these actions as an attempt to “politicize maritime trade.”
- Strategic Interests: The US has been vocal about limiting Chinese influence over the Panama Canal, which handles 5% of global trade. CK Hutchison has since initiated arbitration, seeking over $2 billion in damages for what they claim is unlawful property seizure.
Belize: Government Freezes Projects to Cushion Oil Price Shock
BELMOPAN, BELIZE — Prime Minister John Briceño has announced a series of aggressive fiscal measures to protect Belizeans from skyrocketing global oil prices, which have surged 75% to US$105 a barrel in just two months.
- Fiscal Sacrifice: To prevent a massive hike in bus fares and commuter costs, the government will freeze $30 million in capital projects and cut $25 million from goods and services.
- Operational Shifts: In a move toward digital efficiency, international meetings will be moved online to save on travel costs.
- Stability vs. Cost: While the Prime Minister assured the nation that the fuel supply remains stable at a $5 million monthly estimate, he warned that “adjustments to fuel prices will continue” as the global market fluctuates.
International: King Charles Addresses Congress in High-Stakes D.C. Visit
WASHINGTON D.C. — In a historic visit marking the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, King Charles III met with President Donald Trump at the White House before delivering a “subtle but striking” address to a joint session of Congress.
- Defending Democracy: The King’s speech focused on the shared values of Western democracy and the endurance of the “Special Relationship,” despite current strains over President Trump’s criticism of British leadership regarding the war with Iran.
- Direct Appeals: Charles made a firm call for continued support for Ukraine and urgent action on climate change—two areas where his views notably diverge from the current US administration.
- The Bond of Friendship: Quoting President Trump back to himself regarding the “invaluable” nature of US-UK ties, the King noted that true friends can disagree without jeopardizing their foundational bond.
