For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
August 19, 2003
Presidential Determination
Presidential Determination Regarding U.S. Assistance To
the Government of Colombia Airbridge Denial Program
The President has authorized the Department of State to resume
assistance to Colombia in carrying out an "Airbridge Denial Program"
against civil aircraft suspected of trafficking in illicit drugs. A
previous program proved to be an effective tool in helping reduce the
flow of illegal drugs through Colombia to the United States. This
previous program was suspended in April 2001 after a tragic accident
involving Peru's airbridge denial program resulted in the loss of
innocent life. In granting this authorization, the President has
determined that Colombia has put in place appropriate procedures to
protect against loss of innocent life in connection with interdiction
operations. The United States Department of State will take the lead in
providing this assistance and will monitor operations to ensure strict
adherence to established safety procedures.
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