U.S. Ambassador to Bogota Michael McKinley praised Colombia’s efforts in the drug war, and said that the Obama administration recognises the role U.S. demand plays in the drug trafficking problem, reports RCN Radio.
McKinley said that the U.S. will increase its support for Colombian authorities in battling drug trafficking and terrorism, and that “the United States is focused on reduction in demand.”
The ambassador highlighted a move towards a bilateral policy focused on four interconnected issues: money laundering, drug trafficking, corruption, and financing of terrorist groups.
Recent victories against the FARC will help Colombia’s social and economic development, according to McKinley.
McKinley said that he plans to participate in the 5th Latin American Congress on Organized Crime, Terrorism and Corruption, and that “This struggle will not succeed in the long term without the support of the people.”