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In a notable development on the geopolitical front, Panama's president recently announced the cancellation of the Belt and Road Initiative deal struck with China in 2017, following a meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This decision signals a shift in alliances and a potential return of influence to the United States in the region, particularly regarding the strategically vital Panama Canal. Rubio emphasized the importance of the canal to U.S. national security, portraying the move as part of a larger strategy to counter threats from the Chinese Communist Party.