Word: canals
(lookup in dictionary)
(lookup stats)
Dates: during 1970-1979
Sort By: most recent first
(reverse)
Defense Secretary Brown argued that "the canal was built for shipping, not slogans," and that "theoretical claims of title" to the waterway were irrelevant...
Only the advocates of relinquishing U.S. ownership and operation of the canal to Panama were heard last week. The committee will turn to opponents this week as the hearings continue. At stake are two treaties: one would give the canal to Panama by the end of the century; the other would enable the U.S. to guarantee the canal's neutrality-keeping it open to all the world's shipping-even after the year 2000. Both agreements require approval by the Senate...
...their testimony, an array of uniformed officers and their civilian boss, Defense Secretary Harold Brown, made a strong case that continued U.S. use of the canal, and American defense of it, would be much better ensured if the treaties are accepted than if they are rejected. Contended General George Brown, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs: "United States military interests in the Panama Canal are in its use, not its ownership. Our capability to defend the Panama Canal will be enhanced through cooperation with the government of Panama...
...supporting the treaty, including Vice Admiral Robert L.J. Long, deputy chief of naval operations (he also read a supporting statement from his boss, Admiral James Holloway III, who was on an official visit to India, Iran and Pakistan), and Lieut. General D.P. McAuliffe, commander of U.S. forces in the Canal Zone...
What matters, said Brown, is that the movement of ships be guaranteed. "Efficient operation of the canal in years ahead is more important than nostalgia for a simpler past." Moreover, defense is far more likely in "a cooperative effort with a friendly Panama" than if the treaties were rejected and U.S. forces became "a garrison amid hostile surroundings...