US remains wary of JI’s reach

The United States’ top envoy for counter-terrorism said yesterday the US remains wary of the reach that the Jemaah Islamiyah group behind last year’s Bali bombing has across Southeast Asia.

Ambassador J. Cofer Black, the State Department’s anti-terrorism coordinator, noted that close cooperation among countries in the region however has somewhat "mitigated" the JI threat.

"The United States is concerned about the JI group in the region. It has some history to it. We’re particularly concerned about their ability to move and communication internationally in the region," Black told reporters here after meeting with National Security Adviser Roilo Golez.

Black said countries in the region should follow the US lead in making no concessions to terrorists and help to "isolate and apply pressure on states that sponsor terrorism and force them to change their behavior."

The US official, however, praised Manila for its recent successes against the JI, said to be the Southeast Asian arm of Osama bin Laden’s al-Qaeda network responsible for the bomb attacks that left over 200 dead in Bali, Indonesia on Oct. 12, 2002.

"We are mindful and grateful for the successes and efforts of your government and your law enforcement and security organization has put in the counter-terrorism fight," Black told reporters.

He also said that Philippines is the US’ number one ally in the global fight against terrorism.

"I’ve traveled around the world… Certainly the US has no greater and closer friend in the struggle versus terror than RP," Black said.

He added that the inroads made by the Philippines in the fight against terrorism have effectively protected the US and its citizens from terror attacks.

"Your success impacts directly on America and (the) American people. You have protected us, enhanced the security and safety of those living in the US," he told Golez.

Black’s arrival in the Philippines came after US President George W. Bush batted for closer coordination with the Philippines in its worldwide fight against terrorism.

Black said he came here to "learn and listen… particularly about the terror strategies," and added that his visit can enhance further cooperation, particularly in strengthening law enforcement agencies.

Black also turned over to the Philippine National Police (PNP) law enforcement equipment that will be used to help combat cyber-terrorism and other computer-related crimes in the country. — Mike Frialde, AFP