U.S. Foreign policy should be based on the principles which it seeks to further in the world. These include: non-intervention, respect for self-determination, collective self-defense, peaceful settlement of disputes, respect for human rights support for democratic development and concern for democratic values. Adherence to these principles is critical to working out practical programs for regional peaces and development. To avert a wider war in Central America, the United States should take the following short-range steps: Nicaragua: cease backing the counter-revolutionary forces based in Honduras and Costa Rica, and support Contadora efforts to normalize relations between Nicaragua and its neighbors. El Salvador: cut off military aid, and support efforts for a negotiated settlement involving power-sharing among the contending forces. Honduras: dismantle the U.S. bases in Honduras, withdraw U.S. troops and warships and participate in development aid. Guatemala: express disapproval of the government's repressive policies toward indigenous people, maintain the cut-off of military assistance and provide aid for Guatemalan refugees in Mexico who have fled from the violence there. Costa Rica: oppose militarization and extend economic assistance. Cuba: begin a process designed to achieve normal diplomatic and commercial relations. Authors: Policy Alternatives for the Caribbean and Central America Binding: Paperback Label: Inst for Policy Studies Manufacturer: Inst for Policy Studies Publication Date: 1984-03 Publisher: Inst for Policy Studies Studio: Inst for Policy Studies