
On Thursday, U.S. Secretary of State Mark Rubin stated that he has "no indication" that China has a contingency plan for the blockage of the Panama Canal in case of a conflict with the United States.
This statement was made during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, where the strategy of the United States regarding China was discussed. Mark Rubin noted that Beijing's plans could lead to the expansion of its own influence beyond its own borders.
"The absence of such a strategy from China only confirms that we are dealing with a serious competitor and a potential adversary," the Secretary emphasized.
Rubin also added that the U.S. must continue to engage with China and take all necessary measures to protect its interests and allies.