Barr Meets with Colombian President-Elect on Drugs

(originally published here)

6/21/2002

Echoes President’s Continued Support for Drug War Effort

WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Rep. Bob Barr (GA-7) and President George W. Bush both met this week with Colombian President-elect Alvaro Uribe, and today Barr reiterated Congress’ strong and continued support of the drug war effort; a principle made clear by President Bush in his meeting with the Colombian President yesterday.

Barr, who met with President-elect Uribe on Capitol Hill, as a leading member of the Speaker’s Drug Task Force, said, “There is a clear and undeniable link between the drug trade in Colombia and the terrorist organizations threatening the freedom and security of our nations. Now, more than ever, we must not shy away from the drug war effort - we must combat it both here at home and in needed aid to nations like Colombia. I am pleased the Bush Administration recognizes the very real threat the drug trade poses to democracy and am committed to providing President Bush with the support he needs in the Congress to move forward in the drug war effort.”

Barr also urged President-elect Uribe, who takes office on August 6th, to consider a key role in his new Administration for former head of the Colombian National Police, General Rosso Jose Serrano, with whom Barr has worked on anti-drug matters for several years.

Barr represents Georgia’s Seventh District. He serves on the House Financial Services, Judiciary, and Government Reform Committees.