Correspondingly, we cannot

overlook the fact that Panama's version of the treaty

gives Panama a veto on U.S. action to secure the Canal.

It should also be noted

that Bill Clinton and his Secretary of State both avoided

controversy by not attending the Canal turnover

ceremonies. Unfortunately, their inattention, and failure

to conclude a mutual security agreement with Panama

- which now has no army - will be construed

internationally as unconcern about the Canal's future.

Colombian Marxist rebels, who have applied to Beijing for

recognition, are already operating within 15 miles of the

canal. In one attack on Dec. 12, they killed 45 Colombian

soldiers, according to the London Telegraph.

The Clinton-Gore

Administration is noted for disdain of national strategic

priorities and a "see-no-evil" policy on

Communist China. It appears that both agendas have

converged at the Panama Canal.

William Fielder

Peachtree City