Bush praises Guatemalan president for reforms

President Bush meets with Guatemalan President Alvaro Colom, Monday, April 28, 2008, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. Translator in background is unidentified. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

WASHINGTON—President Bush is voicing support for Guatemala's effort to halt drug trafficking and root out corruption within its borders.

After an Oval Office meeting with Guatemalan President Alvaro Colom on Monday, Bush said, "The United States is pleased to help this government as best as we possibly can."

Colom took office earlier this year and pledged to modernize his nation's crime-plagued police force. He has also sought to put in place tax reform and improve basic services in a country where many live in poverty.

Bush said the United States is working to reduce its demand for illicit drugs and coordinating with Central American leaders to halt the flow of drugs. Colom said his country is "doing everything necessary" to eliminate drug crime.