The Panama Canal, often heralded as one of the wonders of the modern world, is far more than a feat of engineering -- it is a cornerstone of U.S. national security and economic prosperity. This vital maritime shortcut has connected the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans for over a century,

President-elect Donald Trump threatened recently to retake the Panama Canal because of what he called "exorbitant" rates and China's influence. What threats could China pose to the U.S. if it were able to exert strategic control over the canal?

Gordon Chang, expert on U.S.-China relations, joined “Forbes Newsroom” to talk about Trump’s recent comments calling on the U.S. to reclaim control of the Panama Canal.

The president-elect intends to push back on Beijing’s “growth and strategic footprint” in the Western Hemisphere, said Trump’s pick for Latin America special envoy.