Mexico

A top official in Mexico’s Foreign Relations Department says the second installment of US anti-drug aid should be released by January. Undersecretary for North American affairs Carlos Rico says Mexico expects the US to release USD116 million in drug-fighting aircraft and equipment before President George W. Bush leaves office Jan. 20. The US on Dec. 3 released USD 197 million under the so-called Merida Initiative. The USD 1.3 billion package over three years includes helicopters and surveillance aircraft, airport inspection equipment and case-tracking software to help police share real-time intelligence. (AP)