Speeches and Articles by Former Consul General Michael Klosson

Statement by Consul General Michael Klosson on the Removal of Hong Kong from the Drug "Majors List"

November 2, 2000

We have informed the Hong Kong SAR government today that Hong Kong has been removed this year from the annual list of major drug producing or drug transit countries or entities (also known as the "Majors List"). As President Clinton noted in his November 1 letter to Congress, Hong Kong's role as a transit point for U.S.-bound drugs has declined markedly due to several factors including stringent law enforcement measures by Hong Kong authorities and an effective extradition agreement with the United States.

As Consul General, I know first-hand that we have enjoyed excellent cooperation with Hong Kong law enforcement authorities in combating narcotics trafficking, as well as fighting other forms of trans-national crime. This kind of cooperation serves as an effective deterrent to criminals who might otherwise try to use Hong Kong's territory for their illegal activities.

As we all know, the drug plague is a global problem that requires the continuous attention of law enforcement authorities. While Hong Kong has been taken off of the "Majors List," narcotics trafficking in this region remains an area of concern because drug traffickers are always ready to exploit any opportunity. We applaud Hong Kong for the results it has achieved so far in the war on drugs and look forward to continued close collaboration and full sharing of information between our law enforcement authorities.

Further information, including a copy of the President's November 1 letter to Congress, is available on the U.S. Consulate website: http://www.usconsulate.org.hk

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