Panama’s Chinese Ambassador Xu Xueyuan expressed “great sorrow” and “strong indignation” following the overnight demolition of a historic monument at the Bridge of the Americas overlook. The structure, which honored the 150th anniversary of Chinese arrivals in Panama, was torn down on Saturday night, December 27, 2025, by order of the Arraiján mayor’s office. Authorities in China have since lodged formal protests, calling the removal an illegal and vandalistic act that harms bilateral relations.

 

 

 

The monument was originally built in 2004 to celebrate the contributions of Chinese workers to the Panama Canal and the integration of the 300,000-strong Chinese-Panamanian community. Local authorities in Arraiján defended the action by citing structural damage, corrosion, and safety risks to tourists, claiming the decision was technical rather than political. However, witnesses reported that the demolition occurred rapidly and without prior public notice, while police prevented community members from intervening.

 

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino condemned the demolition as an “unforgivable act of irrationality” and stated there was no justification for such “barbarity.” Ambassador Xu described the event as a “darkened day” for the friendship between the two nations and called for a thorough investigation. International observers have noted the incident occurs amidst heightened regional tensions and U.S. pressure regarding Chinese influence over the Panama Canal.

 

President Mulino has already ordered the immediate reconstruction of the monument on its original site to rectify the situation. The Chinese embassy is demanding severe sanctions for those responsible for the unauthorized destruction. Moving forward, the Panamanian government expects to launch a full investigation into the legality of the local mayor’s order and the lack of transparent dialogue.

 

Key Takeaways

 

The Chinese monument at the Bridge of the Americas was demolished on December 27, 2025, by order of the Arraiján mayor’s office.

 

President José Raúl Mulino called the demolition an "unforgivable act of irrationality" and ordered the structure to be immediately rebuilt.

 

Chinese Ambassador Xu Xueyuan expressed great pain over the act, which he said insulted the 300,000 Chinese-Panamanians living in the country.

 

 

Adapted From 

 

https://newsroompanama.com/2025/12/28/panamas-chinese-ambassador-expresses-great-sorrow-over-the-demolition-of-the-monument-at-the-bridge-of-the-americas-overlook/

Chinese immigrants not only helped build the Canal, they settled Panama into a modern power. This racist mayor should be in jail  and osted for racism and destruction of a monument. The Canal is open to all ships, including Chinese. Or do you want your toaster oven in six months?

If it really was dangerous all they have to do is rebuild it.

 

The Chinese are such whinging little bulliess.