The Chinese ambassador to Panama has publicly addressed the controversial demolition of a historic monument honoring the Chinese community. Ambassador Xu Xueyuan spoke this week about the incident that occurred on December 27, 2025, when the monument at the Bridge of the Americas viewpoint was destroyed on orders from Arraij\u00e1n Mayor Stefany Pe\u00f1alba.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The destruction of the structure, which commemorated 150 years of Chinese presence in Panama, sparked immediate outrage. The backlash from the local Chinese diaspora in Panama<\/a> and other residents prompted an official investigation. Panama’s Ministry of Public (Prosecutor General’s Office) of Panama<\/a> is now leading a probe into the legality of the mayor’s actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ambassador Xu confirmed that Panamanian authorities have launched a formal investigation. She expressed a clear expectation that those responsible will face legal consequences for their actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n “The relevant authorities have already initiated an investigation,” Xu stated. [Translated from Spanish] “We expect those responsible to assume the corresponding consequences.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n The ambassador also referenced a direct order from President Jos\u00e9 Ra\u00fal Mulino. She said she hopes the president’s mandate for reconstruction will be fulfilled promptly and without further delay. Xu emphasized the new monument should stand on its original site near the Bridge of the Americas<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Local officials have provided a tentative timeline for restoration. La Chorrera Mayor Eloy Chong indicated the monument should be rebuilt before March 30. That date holds deep significance for the local chinese community<\/a> as it traditionally marks an annual floral offering ceremony at the site.<\/p>\n\nOfficial Investigation and Calls for Rebuilding<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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