Oil to N. Korea

Re “N. Korea Aid Yields Bounty of Threats,” International Outlook, Sept. 30: Jim Mann criticizes the Clinton administration for spending $15 million for North Korean fuel oil as a part of the 1994 deal in which North Korea agreed to freeze its plutonium production and eventually dismantle its nuclear program for an exchange of fuel oil and two new civilian nuclear reactors. If this policy of “engaging” North Korea can establish a nuclear-free zone in northeastern Asia, then the $15 million is well-spent.

Mann accused North Korea of firing a missile over Japanese territory to threaten her neighbors. It turns out that it is only a satellite launched by North Korea (Oct. 2). Whenever the U.S. launches a satellite, is Mexico threatened? The food aid program is to show the humanitarianism of the people in the U.S., and for lifesaving for the innocent. Where are our human rights promoters? Is it a double standard?

WYMAN WUN

Rancho Palos Verdes