Treaty Violation Read Online Free

Americans, which Romero would exploit for his own political gain. “I’ll talk to the party treasurer,” he continued, “but getting a complete list could take some time.”
    Romero laughed. “I didn’t ask for a list. I only wanted to know where the extra money was coming from.” He paused and clucked his tongue as he looked at Mendoza. “Funny how the increase in advertising coincided with your proposal to allow the Americans to keep military bases in Panama post- 1999 .”
    Hernandez jabbed an accusing finger. “Hold it right there—”
    “No,” Mendoza said. “That’s a fair observation. Let me ask you an important question. Would you accept money from the Americans if it was the only way to get reelected?”
    Romero shrugged. “I’d rather not take money—”
    “I didn’t ask you what you’d rather do,” Mendoza said calmly. “Given the options of reelection or defeat, would you accept money from the Americans?”
    “I suppose I’d take the money,” Romero said, “but I wouldn’t sell out Panama.”
    “You wouldn’t sell out Panama,” Hernandez repeated as if deciphering the words of a moron. “I suppose you know what’s good for Panama?”
    “I know Panama doesn’t need those damned Americans!” Romero said.
    Hernandez shook his head in disgust and poured a drink. The Americans were the masters of geopolitics—he could admit that without envy—and they, like he, knew that keeping U.S. soldiers in Panama post- 1999 was in both nations’ interests. Leaders worked in gray areas to make the world appear black and white to the masses.
    Romero folded his arms and faced the window. “You want those damned American soldiers reminding us we can’t take care of ourselves?”
    Hernandez jabbed an accusing finger but decided not to respond. Romero had a point: Panama’s dependence on America was disgraceful, but the world was full of harsh realities.
    “If I may, gentlemen,” Mendoza said.
    Hernandez and Romero apologized.
    “The vice president has a good point,” Mendoza said. “I agree that selling out Panama for the sake of reelection would be reprehensible”— he gestured to Romero—“but what if we’re doing it for Panama’s benefit? I call that a win-win situation. I truly believe an alliance with the Americans is the right choice.”
    Hernandez nodded approvingly as Romero grumbled.
    “Drugs are a threat,” Mendoza continued. “The American military presence provides stability and security, which is good for the Canal and for business.”
    “Exactly,” Hernandez said.
    “But when will we walk on our own two feet?” Romero asked and threw his hands up in defeat. “How long will we ask the Americans to protect us from ourselves? Panamanians must experience freedom, which also means assuming responsibility.”
    Hernandez groaned and sipped his drink.
    “Our destiny is freedom,” Romero continued. “Freedom means the departure of American soldiers. Can you imagine what allowing them to remain would do to our national psyche? It would perpetuate our dependency mindset, which would be shameful and irresponsible. We can do better than that.”
    “All the polls indicate the people favor a continued U.S. military presence.” Hernandez hated to invoke polls, but this one was convenient to his purpose. “If the citizens are eager for the Americans to leave, why do the polls not reflect that sentiment?”
    “Because they’re afraid!” Romero said. “The Americans are their hedge against government incompetence. Economic reform, not military bases, is Panama’s most important issue. The other problems are merely symptoms of social injustice.”
    Mendoza nodded and puffed his cigar. “I’ll find a way to allow the U.S. military to stay here post- 1999 , regardless of what the 1977 treaties or the Legislative Assembly say.” He silenced Romero with an open hand. “Economic progress, as you said, is also important. We must make Panama more competitive if we plan to