US CALMS MEXICO ON DRUG LIST

MEXICO CITY (AP) -- U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Davidow calmed Mexican
concerns Friday, saying he didn't think any Mexican businessmen would
be included on a list of drug ``kingpins'' to be released under a new
U.S. law in June.

Mexican officials have expressed concern about the June 1
implementation of the U.S. drug kingpin law, which will allow for the
freezing of U.S. assets of foreigners linked to drug
trafficking.

``I think there has been a misunderstanding here. I think we won't see
businessmen on the list which is to be published,'' Davidow told
reporters in Mexico City's main square following an observance of the
Cinco de Mayo holiday.

On Thursday, Foreign Minister Rosario Green warned ``we could not
accept the possibility that the good names and reputations of people
and businesses might be damaged'' by the list.

U.S. officials have said Mexico is concerned that the new law might be
used to hurt Mexican businesses that compete with U.S. firms.