US Recognition of HK's Anti-Drug Efforts WelcomedHong Kong Thursday welcomed the US government's decision to remove Hong Kong from the list of "major drug transit countries/entities" following the release of a letter to the US Congress by President Bill Clinton on November 1, 2000."I am pleased that the United States has finally recognized Hong Kong's efforts and achievements in combating drugs and money laundering," Secretary for Security Regina Ip said. "The fact that Hong Kong was selected by the international Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering to take over the FATF presidency for 2001/2002 manifestly demonstrates that Hong Kong's vigorous and continuous efforts in combating the drug and money laundering problem have been recognized by the international community," she said. Explaining the US government's decision to remove Hong Kong from the list, President Clinton said, "Over the past few years, Hong Kong's role as a transit point for US-bound drugs has declined markedly." He also cited stringent law enforcement actions and extradition agreements with various countries including the United States as supporting evidences for the US government's decision. |
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