China’s Control of Panama Canal Feared

Americans will not stand for Chinese control of the Panama Canal, a group that includes retired military officers said today.

Dumping a 4-foot-high pile of 250,000 petitions near the Capitol Building, the group opposed to a Hong Kong business’ lease on canal ports appealed to Congress to ensure the canal stays open to U.S. shipping.

Under a 1977 agreement, the last U.S. forces are pulling out of Panama on Dec. 31, turning over the canal to Panama.

The petitions call upon Congress to investigate claims that the Clinton administration has allowed China to become the canal’s “gatekeeper” after U.S. forces leave.

“We built it, we paid for it, we use it,” said retired Adm. Thomas H. Moorer, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs. “We want to make sure the Chinese communists don’t gain control of it.”

Moorer spoke at a news conference on the Capitol lawn with other members of the National Security Center and several members of Congress concerned about the canal’s future. The center, which includes 80 retired military officers on its advisory board, has been stirring concern about U.S. turnover of the canal to Panama.

“The United States and Panama have a joint regard for democracy and freedom . . . and we do not want to see it weakened by outside influence from China,” said Rep. Bob Barr, R-Ga.

The Clinton administration says there is nothing to indicate that the Chinese have any desire to control the canal once the United States pulls out.

Panamanian officials have also dismissed fears that the 20-year arrangement with Hutchison Whampoa Ltd. will give China control over the waterway. The company will manage access to ports at the Pacific and Atlantic entrances to the canal.

Congress plans hearings on the issue before the end of the month.

Moorer said if the United States does not maintain priority use of the canal, “then we would be forced to take it back.”