13/02/2002

Reid tells Americans 'Northern Ireland people understand'

The Secretary of State John Reid has told the Americans that the people of Northern Ireland understand how they feel in the face of the threat of terrorism.

Speaking from Washington Dr Reid said Northern Ireland had a "special understanding" of what it means to suffer from terrorism and had much to offer the people of America in terms of experience of dealing with victims of trauma.

The Secretary of State was speaking following meetings with Ambassador Richard Haas, President Bush's adviser on Northern Ireland and General Colin Powell, Secretary of State at the State Department, during a two-day visit to Washington.

In his speech, Dr. Reid also rejected suggestions that the government was applying double standards on international terrorism and political violence in Northern Ireland.

"Terrorism is terrorism," he said, "irrespective of who is responsible and what motives they claim.

"There is no room for compromise when political purposes are pursued through terrorist violence."

During his visit he will also meet Robert Mueller, director of the FBI, to discuss strategies to combat organised crime and with US senators including Edward Kennedy and Hillary Clinton.

(AMcE)

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