DATE=1/11/2000
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=CLINTON - COLOMBIA (S)
NUMBER=2-257965
BYLINE=DEBORAH TATE
DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:

///Re-running w/must correct in introduction (change 
from 1.3 to 1.6 billion dollars)///


INTRO:  The Clinton administration has announced a 
two-year, one-point-six-billion dollar plan to help 
Colombia implement political reforms and fight drug 
trafficking.  President Clinton said Tuesday that 
building a stable democracy and fighting the drug 
trade in Colombia is in the fundamental U-S national 
interest.  Correspondent Deborah Tate reports from the 
White House.


Text:  Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, speaking 
to reporters at the White House, says the aid will 
provide military hardware to upgrade Colombian forces 
in their fight against drug traffickers.

The package - which is based on an anti-drug plan 
drawn up by Colombian President Andres Pastrana - will 
also increase coca crop eradication and promote 
alternative crops.  In addition, it will support 
efforts to promote the peace process and support 
protection of human rights.

The plan reflects heightened U-S concern over 
skyrocketing Colombian cocaine and heroine production 
and exports to the United States, as well as the 
Colombian government's difficulties in cracking down 
on Marxist guerrillas involved in drug trafficking.

Ms. Albright believes there will be broad support for 
the aid plan in Congress, even though she acknowledges 
majority Republicans may disagree with how the funds 
are used.  Many Republicans believe anti-drug aid 
should go directly to law enforcement. (Signed)

NEB/DAT/TVM/JP




11-Jan-2000 20:29 PM EDT (12-Jan-2000 0129 UTC)
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Source: Voice of America
.