United States Condemns Bogota Bombings

The United States condemns the bomb and rocket attacks in downtown Bogota, which were obviously intended to sow death, destruction and fear among Colombians during the important democratic transition taking place there today. We understand that between ten and fourteen people were killed and at least 24 injured in a series of attacks designed to disrupt the presidential inauguration of Alvaro Uribe. Given the high-level attendance by foreign dignitaries, this heinous terrorist act also shows contempt for democratic leaders throughout the hemisphere. Our Embassy is still gathering information about the magnitude of these attacks, but it fits the pattern of recent FARC behavior and demonstrates once again that this terrorist group has little regard for the lives and well-being of Colombian citizens. Our sympathy goes out to the victims and their families, and we once again extend our best wishes to President Uribe. We wish him every success in his efforts to bring peace and security to Colombia.