Leon Panetta actually said...

By finally acceding to the Convention, we help make our Nation more secure and more prosperous for generations to come.

Although we do not have territory there, we have vital interests--particularly freedom of navigation.

We have much more to gain from legal certainty and public order in the world's oceans than any other country.

Critics claim we would surrender U.S. sovereignty under this treaty, but in fact, it is exactly the opposite.