COCA FUMIGATIONS TO RESUME, PRESIDENT SAYS

Colombia's president said U.S.-funded drug sprayings will resume in the
world's largest cocaine-producing region after being suspended this year,
the state news agency reported.

The decision could spark strong reaction from thousands of farmers in the
southern state of Putumayo who earn a meager living growing coca, which is
used to make cocaine.

President Andres Pastrana said the spraying would target large plantations.
Pastrana did not indicate when it would begin. Fumigations have been
suspended frequently in the last two years amid opposition from farmers and
pickers who say they have no other way to earn a living.