Conclusion
Our national drug control policies in support of counterdrug operations with allied nations, particularly Colombia, have reduced the amount of cocaine available in the world by nearly one-third in the last three years. Aerial eradication, at the heart of our program, must be sustained and reinforced. That effort, combined with support to the Government of Colombia for the rule of law particularly in the areas of highest illegal drug production has the potential to dramatically reduce drug flow to the United States. The opportunity is there to permanently disrupt the efforts of drug traffickers while improving security, stability, respect for human rights, and legitimate economic opportunity in Colombia.
In the future, our assistance will seek to effectively sustain the gains made under the Andean Counterdrug Initiative. The basic goals remain the same: eliminating narcoterrorism, promoting respect for human rights, creating economic alternatives and opportunities, respecting rule of law, and achieving peace.
Last Updated: May 12, 2005
