Question

Do you think it was right for America to "give" Panama the Canal Zone in 1999? What could be the possible positive and negative consequences of this action for the United States?

a) Yes, it was a strategic decision for mutual benefit.
b) No, it weakened America's global influence.
c) Yes, it improved international relations.
d) No, it jeopardized national security.

Answer 1

It was a strategic decision for mutual benefit with positive consequences such as improved diplomatic relations and economic development in Panama, but negative consequences such as loss of control over a strategic location and weakened global influence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The decision for the United States to 'give' Panama the Canal Zone in 1999 was a strategic decision aimed at improving international relations. This action had both positive and negative consequences for the United States.

Positive consequences included improved diplomatic relations with Panama and other countries, as well as the promotion of economic development in Panama through the management and maintenance of the canal operations. The return of the Canal Zone also aligned with international laws and principles of sovereignty.

Negative consequences included the loss of control over a valuable strategic location for US military exercises and the perception of weakened global influence by some American citizens and conservative groups. There were concerns about national security as the US military claimed the reason for remaining in the Canal Zone was to provide security for the canal.