US gives more anti-drug money but no funds for flights.

LIMA -- By the end of the year, the US government plans to disburse an additional $22.7 million in support for Peru's anti-drug programs, air policing and the reduction of narcotics demand. The funds are in addition to $25 million donated two months ago to the interim government for the development of programs to encourage coca growers to switch to other crops. The $47 million is not part of the Andean Regional Initiative being discussed by the US Congress, which could provide an additional $65 million. However, financial aid to the Peruvian Air Force remains suspended for the time being while the governments study the implication of renewing flights to interdict aircraft suspected of carrying drugs. The suspension follows the mistaken downing of a missionary plane carrying US citizens over the Peruvian jungle earlier this year

Print Get the Mag Weekly Updates