Biden labels Dominican Republic and other nations as major drug transit

Washington, USA.- On Sunday, U.S. President Joe Biden stated that Bolivia and Venezuela failed to meet international anti-drug agreements over the past year. In a memorandum to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Biden identified a total of around 20 nations, primarily in Latin America and the Caribbean, as major drug transit or production hubs. Countries listed include Bolivia, Venezuela, Colombia, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.

Biden emphasized that inclusion on the list does not necessarily reflect a government’s anti-drug efforts or cooperation with the U.S. However, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Burma were specifically mentioned for their failure to adhere to anti-drug commitments. Despite these shortcomings, Biden stressed the importance of maintaining aid programs in these countries for U.S. interests.

The memo also highlighted a drop in U.S. drug overdose deaths in 2023, credited to Biden’s administration’s efforts. He reiterated the need for stronger international cooperation, particularly with key allies like Mexico, to tackle the fentanyl epidemic and dismantle drug trafficking organizations. Biden also praised Colombia and Peru for their ongoing commitment to reducing cocaine production and mentioned China’s role in regulating precursor chemicals used in drug production.

Source:  EFE Agency