The head of the Pentagon spoke about the agreement on the Panama Canal

A framework agreement was signed between the United States and Panama, according to which American warships will have priority and free passage through the Panama Canal. This was announced on April 9 by the head of the Pentagon, Pete Hegseth.

"We also signed a framework agreement with the Minister of Canal Affairs that U.S. military and auxiliary ships will pass through the Panama Canal first and free of charge," Hegseth told reporters, summing up his visit to Panama.

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On April 9, Hegseth noted that China's military forces have too large a presence in the Western Hemisphere. And, according to him, it is for this reason that the United States and Panama recently signed a memorandum of understanding on joint security activities. He also said that it is planned to conclude a joint declaration with the Minister for the Panama Canal on safety and its operation.