The World - News from March 23, 1989

Eric A. Delvalle, still recognized by the United States as Panama’s legitimate president despite his ouster by strongman Manuel A. Noriega last year, met with Secretary of State James A. Baker III in Washington to “discuss the various options.” He also said that he will return to Panama and then step down after national elections May 7. Delvalle, who lives in hiding somewhere in Panama, said he plans to “go into business in the private sector.” At the same time, the State Department accused the government of Panama of widespread repression and questioned whether free and fair elections could be held “in such an atmosphere.”