Expressing the sense of the Congress that the President should seek to negotiate a new base rights agreement with the Government of Panama to permit the United States Armed Forces to remain in Panama beyond December 31, 1999, and to permit the United States to act independently to continue to protect the Panama Canal.

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should: (1) negotiate a new base rights agreement with the Government of Panama to allow the permanent stationing of U.S. military forces in Panama beyond 1999 and to ensure that the United States will be able to act independently to maintain the security and operation of the Panama Canal; and (2) consult with the Congress throughout such negotiations.