A Statement from the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala about the Precursor Chemical Disposal

Guatemala, January 31, 2012

“The U.S. Embassy in Guatemala is working together with the Government of Guatemala to ameliorate the precursor chemical disposal problem. Thus far, the United States Government has provided expertise of specialists from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and technical assistance the State Department’s Bureau of Narcotic Affairs, and the U.S. Military. The presence of the stored precursor chemicals is a direct side-effect of vigorous counter-drug operations by the Government of Guatemala. While the Otto Pérez Government inherited this challenge from its predecessor, officials are fully informed of the presence of these chemicals, have a plan of action, and are actively taking steps to mitigate public exposure and safely and effectively dispose of the dangerous substances. The United States Government will continue to assist in this response through the provision of medium-term financial assistance, and as a partner of the Government of Guatemala in the fight against illicit trafficking, hopes to collaborate with the Government of Guatemala on a regional solution to a regional problem.”