Dog School Inauguration
February 25, 2005

Thank you for attending the inauguración de las nuevas instalaciones de la escuela técnica canina de la policía nacional civil .

Much of the illicit narcotics transiting El Salvador is bound for the United States. However, as many of you know, significant amounts of narcotics remain in this country. The distribution and sale of illegal drugs, whether in El Salvador or the United States, contributes to lawlessness, violence, and a host of social problems – for individuals, their families, and for society as a whole.

The United States is proud to work hand in hand with the Government of El Salvador to promote our mutual interest in stopping the flow of illicit narcotics. We remain committed to assisting the GOES in its efforts to control its borders and to enforce its laws. These efforts will be greatly enhanced by canine and guide teams trained at the ESCUELA TÉCNICA CANINA . Both the animals and their handlers are highly-trained professionals who are among the Police’s finest assets. What’s more, rather than having to travel abroad, they now can complete their training in the same country they will serve -- El Salvador.

They say that dog is man’s best friend. In the fight against drug trafficking, nothing could be more true -- unless you are trying to bring illegal drugs into El Salvador. Then these dogs are going to be your worst enemy.

Thank you.