Finally we are doing something right? Not good news for the Red Chinese though.
Why do I get the feeling that “the One” will announce some major deal with Cuba where we are giving back Gitmo and moving to Panama.
I’d like to see the Naval bases reopened in the Philippines. The Navy should be returned to “The P.I.”!!!
Location, location, location.
Way back when, Jimmy Carter turned the Panama Canal Zone and the canal over to the Panamanians. I don’t say “back over,” because there was no Panama before WE built the Panama Canal. That real estate belonged to Colombia. I remember reading at the time, and discussing in school, how Carter’s generosity would affect Panama, now that they were “free,” and someone pointed out they were losing billions of dollars of U.S. aid by taking control. So here we come, full circle. The Panamanians want us back because they can’t afford to defend themselves, and because they now really, really appreciate the dollars that U.S. military installations bring to their country. I wish someone would report how much it cost us to withdraw, strategically, from Panama in the first place.
Does Emperor Obie know about this? Who authorized this? He is going to be ticked.
bump
Take that, Hugo!
It’s called heading them off at the pass.
...for the other shoe to drop.
I never hear good news out of this administration thinking it’s all a plus. Something negative will come of this.
In truth, I suppose a naval base just above South America is a good thing. It sure sends a message to China with regard to the safety of the Canal.
Probably looking for some major $$ in aid for the crumbling canal infrastructure. You would not believe the poor shape they have let the canal hardware fall to since they took over.
BTW, for all those who think the USA just gave away the Panama Canal, it was actually a matter of a treaty ending, thanks to Carter and subsequent Presidents who didn't fight to extend it. Sorta like Britain had to give up Hong Kong due to the end of a century old lease.
That actually turned out to be good for the average Chinese. They and their leadership got a big dose of capitalism and are quickly becoming a free-enterprise nation with a growing middle-class (China expects GDP of 8% by year end - what is our projection? ).
The Chi-Coms still have room for improvement politically and civil rights wise, but they are becoming more capitalistic by the day as the USA is becoming more socialist/Marxist by the day. The Chi-coms understand the importance of free-enterprise and are selling off their State controlled assets to private investors/corporations. The USA is in the process of seizing control of personal/corporate assets.
Still, no matter what the circumstances, I can only see this as a good thing. The Panama Canal is one of the most strategic points in the Western Hemisphere. I am encouraged if the US is allowed to have military bases there. I've often worried about the Chi-coms controlling both ends of the canal, even with their move towards capitalism. Someone was thinking here. Again, when and how did this come about?
“”One of the bases will be located in Bahia Pina...450 kilometers [280 miles] east of the capital, Panama City, and another one - in Punta Coca about 350 km [217 miles] west of the capital,””
wow these guys are going to be far far from any urban reality.
I kept thinking Howard might be re-leased by USAF with the imminent closing of Manta, but there is considerable civilian construction there now (a huge terminal facility, for one thing) and I guess it is going to be civilian-only. The flight-line and the main area of the base (including associated housing behind the tdy qtrs/church) has been mostly unused since turnover.
there should be one on each opening....
I’ll put it to you that airbases in panama makes Venezuala within range of all-up loaded F-15E’s.
Think the Mudhen’s could have fun flying between mountains blocking radar while ruining Chavez’s day?
I know, I’m just sayin’.
Oh, now that’s gonna be energy efficient to send prisoners there, huh? Good idea, close Gitmo and open Panama. What is it 50 times further away? Sheesh.
Now, THAT is good news...........for a change!!
BTW, as Rush reminded us today, the Dear Leader never bothered to visit the flood-stricken areas of 'American' Georgia.
Oh boy! We built it and protected it and Carter gave it away. This is a start.
However, as I am president of Navy League Panama Council, I will have some insights over the next few weeks that others may not have. Will be calling my Embassy contacts tomorrow about this for clarification.