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FRIDAY, AUGUST 17, 2001

The State Department on Thursday defended the government's involvement in the fumigation of drug crops in Colombia with an herbicide Indian leaders say is dangerous.

Assistant Secretary of State Rand Beers said exposure to the herbicide, known as glyphosate, would not hurt humans. He said it could cause slight irritation to the eyes and skin if humans are exposed.

The United States has funded Colombia's anti-drug program with $1.3 billion, much of it going to the spraying of crops. Indian farmers complained about the fumigation, which was temporarily stopped last month.

Get the Story:
State department official defends Colombia drug spraying program (AP 8/16)

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