Panama
Constitutional Background
Panama's channel link is vital to the U.S., carrying about 14% of its trade.
History and News
- 31 Dec 1999: Remaining American bases as well as the canal are to be turned over to Panama; American troops may only remain by agreement.
- May 1996: Allegations about the PRD's use of drug cartel money in their campaign fund turn out to be of substance. $51,000 are supposed to originate with drug lord Jose Castrillon Henao.
- 8 Sep 1995: 70% of citizens are in favor of continuous presence of US troups, mostly for economic reasons.
- 1994: Balladares wins presidential elections.
- 1989: US invasion, while ousting the tyrant General Manuel Noriega, kills several hundred innocent Panamanians without their families being compensated by the US.
- 1977: Signature of Channel Treaties provides for the leave of all US troups until 31 Dec 1999.