WASHINGTON, DC As part of his role as Ranking Democrat on the Armed Services Committee's Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) traveled to Bogota to meet with Colombian leaders and U.S. military officials. Reed arrived in Colombia on April 19 and returned to the United States on April 21, 2006.While in the capital city of Bogota, Senator Reed met with Colombian President Alvaro Uribe and U.S. Ambassador to Colombia William Wood. He also met with Colombian business leaders.On April 20th, Reed traveled to military installations in Tolemaida and Larandia where he received briefings on anti-drug operations and counterinsurgency efforts. Reed also discussed economic development for the region.I was impressed by the commitment and sacrifice of Americas military personnel serving in Colombia, said Reed. I was also touched by the determination of the Colombian people. Our governments are working together to defeat narco-terrorists and rebuild Colombian communities that have been victimized by violence and bloodshed for far too long.Rhode Islands Columbian community has long been a positive force in our state. I was pleased to again have the opportunity to visit the birthplace of many of these Rhode Islanders, and to gain a deeper understanding of the issues facing the Columbian people.