BEIJING, Feb 8 (Reuters) - China expressed regret on Saturday regarding Panama's decision to withdraw from Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative. The Assistant Foreign Minister, Zhao Zhuyuan, met with Panama's ambassador to China and lodged a formal protest, as announced by the foreign ministry.
Zhao expressed deep regret over Panama's choice, emphasizing that it does not serve Panama's vital interests. The ministry statement urged Panama to "eliminate external interference and make the right decision considering the overall bilateral relationship and the long-term interests of both nations."