Speeches and Articles by Former Consul General Michael Klosson

REMARKS BY U.S. CONSUL GENERAL MICHAEL KLOSSON
AT ASSET-SHARING CHECK PRESENTATION CEREMONY

September 26, 2001

(As prepared for delivery)

Good afternoon. I would like to thank Secretary Ip for hosting today's ceremony, and all the other honored guests for joining in this event.

International law enforcement cooperation has always been a priority for the United States. But the terrorist attacks of September 11 underscore how essential it has become. Thus, it is particularly gratifying today to participate in this event which celebrates successful international action.

Today's ceremony represents the fruit of hard work by law enforcement officials from Hong Kong, Australia and the United States.

Fortunately, this is also one of those occasions - often rare in government work - when we don't have to say "the check's in the mail." The check is actually here!

In accepting this check on behalf of the United States Government, let me express my gratitude to all the law enforcement officials present for their tireless efforts to combat trafficking in illicit narcotics.

In June of last year, we held a similar ceremony in which the U.S. Government provided to the Hong Kong SAR government a share of the proceeds from another joint anti-narcotics operation. Now it is our turn to receive a check from the Hong Kong government - visible proof of the tangible benefits to both sides of this form of cooperation. With continued hard work by our law-enforcement officials, it is my conviction that we will make this a regular, and even more frequent, event.

As criminal activities and organizations increasingly transcend national boundaries, the need for international law enforcement cooperation grows ever more essential. I am therefore proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with Hong Kong and Australia in the fight against illegal drug trafficking and to affirm that we will prevail. Our cooperation has never been stronger.

What lesson can we draw from this cooperation in shaping a decisive response to the terrorist attacks on September 11?

Over the past two decades, the scourge of illicit drugs and the harm they caused to our societies galvanized an international consensus, new international conventions and better practical cooperation to prosecute a war on narco-traffickers. So too, an even more determined and even more comprehensive response is now required to combat terrorism and the networks, including financial networks, that support it.

The horror the world witnessed on September 11, which killed thousands of innocent Americans and people from 80 other nations and struck at the foundations of civil society around the world, is bringing forth a new international consensus for action.

The road ahead will be long and difficult, but through the unity of the international community - with the active engagement of partners like Australia and Hong Kong - we will put a stop to terrorism.

Again, Thanks to Secretary Ip for hosting this event, and let me assure my colleagues from Hong Kong and Australia of our firm commitment to uphold the excellent cooperation we already enjoy.