New Delhi, Dec. 30 -- China on Monday condemned the demolition of a monument honoring the Chinese community in Panama, the latest development as the Trump administration pushes for the Central American nation to distance itself from Beijing.

Panama's president echoed the condemnation, blaming local authorities and pledging that the monument would be rebuilt.

Overnight, videos circulated on social media showing large excavators tearing down the monument, which commemorated 150 years of Chinese presence in Panama and Chinese migrants who helped build railroads and the Panama Canal.

Erected in 2004 with traditional Chinese architectural elements - including a ceremonial arch, curved roof tiles and stone lions - it stood at a scenic overlo...