OPINION:
In ancient Chinese martial arts, a weaker opponent could defeat the stronger with a lethal blow to an exposed gap in the opponent’s armor. In Chinese culture, exploiting an opponent’s weak spot is referred to as the “Assassin’s Mace.” The Panama Canal and its vulnerable antique locks are described as such in “Unrestricted Warfare,” a 1998 book that lays out China’s strategy for fighting the U.S.
The year after the book was published, China took control of the Panama Canal through a Hong Kong port management company that had been outbid for a 25-year lease by American port companies. Congress sought another bidding competition, but subsequent U.S. administrations did not take action.
Chinese military planners are correct: This vital water passage is America’s strategic chokepoint connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Without controlling it, as President Trump states, we are economically limited and supply-chain vulnerable .
Secretary of State Marco Rubio was right to focus on this issue during his confirmation hearing (“Rubio sworn in as secretary of state, vows to promote ‘peace through strength,’” Web, Jan. 21). America’s economic prosperity and security are at stake. Hoping for the best is not an option.
ALBERT SANTOLI
Founder and president, Asia America Initiative
Fairfax, Virginia
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