Rumors have been flying about the hand-over of the Panama Canal and the possibilty of China gaining control. I'm not a military analyst but my gut says that would be a heck of a tactical advantage, not to mention the shipping lanes.

Does the pope see (know?) something we don't? Is it customary for the Pope to comment on this type of transaction?

Just seems a little flaky.

--------------------------------------------- Pope Advises Panama on Canal

The Associated Press

Monday, Dec. 6, 1999; 1:00 p.m. EST

VATICAN CITY –– Pope John Paul II urged Panama to guard against

outside influences after it gains control of the Panama Canal, calling the

upcoming handover a "magnificent, historic opportunity."

The pope delivered the warning during a Vatican ceremony Saturday in

which Panama's new ambassador to the Holy See, Edda Victoria

Martinelli, presented her diplomatic credentials.

Panama gains final control of the canal Dec. 31, ending American

sovereignty over the lucrative shipping short-cut, which opened in 1914.

"In recovering sovereignty of the territory, you must pay particular

attention to avoid letting outside interests or pressures take advantage of

the benefits that this magnificent historic opportunity can bring to the

people," John Paul said.

Used wisely, John Paul said, the canal can contribute to projects to end

poverty in the country and improve education and the justice system.

He did not single out any country in his warning.

Conservatives in Washington have worried China will acquire undue

control through port concessions granted a Hong Kong company.

© Copyright 1999 The Associated Press