[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000-2001, Book III)]
[October 26, 2000]
[Pages 2332-2333]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Report on Counterdrug 
Assistance to Colombia and Neighboring Countries
October 26, 2000

Dear Mr. Chairman:
    I hereby report, in accordance with section 3202 of the Military 
Construction Appropriations Act, 2001, on current U.S. policy and 
strategy for counterdrug assistance to Colombia and neighboring 
countries. The enclosed report sets forth the rationale for expanded 
support to Colombia and neighboring countries and highlights the 
comprehensive initiatives now underway in the Andean region in support 
of the National Drug Control Strategy.
    Colombia's success in combating the threat of drugs is profoundly in 
the interest of the United States. A peaceful, democratic, and 
economically prosperous Colombia will result in a significant reduction 
of the supply of illicit drugs and help promote democracy and stability 
throughout the hemisphere. I am proud of the bipartisan effort that has 
made our Colombian initiative possible.
         Sincerely,

                                                      William J. Clinton

Note: Letters were sent to Jesse Helms, chairman, Senate Committee on 
Foreign Relations;

[[Page 2333]]

Ted Stevens, chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriations; Benjamin A. 
Gilman, chairman, House Committee on International Relations; and C.W. 
Bill Young, chairman, House Committee on Appropriations. An original was 
not available for verification of the content of this letter.