Avoid criticizing Mexico's drug war,lawmakers are told

The Clinton Administration's drug policy adviser told lawmakers Wednesday
that their criticism of Mexico's counternarcotics efforts could hurt
cooperation in the war on drugs.

"Given Mexico's political situation, we are more apt to attain better
results as a partner confronting this common problem than as a powerful
neighbor making demands," declared retired Gen. Barry McCaffrey.

His remarks appeared directed at Sens. Paul Coverdell, RGa., and Dianne
Feinstein, DCalif., for a joint statement Oct. 21 that Mexico could lose
its certification as a cooperative partner in the antidrug war when it
comes up for renewal in March.