Group 1 - The article discusses concerns raised by the Panama Canal Authority regarding the sale of Hong Kong's Cheung Kong Holdings' port assets, suggesting that the transaction structure may lead to excessive concentration of port ownership, harming market competitiveness in Panama and violating neutrality principles [1] - The Chinese government, represented by spokesperson Lin Jian, emphasized its opposition to economic coercion and reiterated support for Panama's sovereignty and its rights as an independent nation [1] - Lin Jian stated that China respects Panama's sovereignty over the canal and acknowledges its status as a permanently neutral international waterway, indicating a commitment to uphold Panama's legitimate rights [1]

Group 1 - The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that there is currently no further information available regarding the next steps in the China-US economic and trade negotiations following the first meeting held in London on June 9-10 [2] - The spokesperson emphasized China's consistent opposition to economic coercion and bullying, particularly in response to concerns raised about the sale of Hong Kong's Cheung Kong Holdings' overseas port assets [3] Group 2 - The spokesperson reiterated China's respect for Panama's sovereignty over the Panama Canal and its status as a permanently neutral international waterway, supporting Panama's rights as an independent nation [3]