1.   But Panamanian officials acknowledge that their deployment of police is largely symbolic.

2.   But these officials said they had seen no hard evidence that Panamanian officials did anything more than break the laws of their own country.

3.   In explaining their decision to the public, Panamanian officials emphasized that they were putting their faith in the United States to comply with the guarantees.

4.   It drew harsh words from Panamanian officials, who said the decision showed the US no longer cares about the canal or about Panama.

5.   It also allowed Panamanian officials to exchange information with foreign investigators.

6.   Last week, the U.S. Embassy in Panama said top Panamanian officials helped thousands of Chinese sneak into the United States.

7.   Panamanian officials described the equipment as new sensing devices that can penetrate the jungle canopy better.

8.   Panamanian officials say they have been told that other military sites, ranging from bases to schools, may also be handed over ahead of schedule.

9.   Panamanian officials are beefing up border police units with helicopters and other equipment.

10.   Panamanian officials are not ignoring the trend toward larger vessels, he says.