De la Madrid Rejects U.S. ‘Hot Pursuit’ by Aircraft

Mexican President Miguel de la Madrid on Thursday denied he may allow U.S. aircraft to cross the Mexican border in pursuit of drug traffickers.

De la Madrid told a National Press Club luncheon: “There is no basis for such information. We are convinced of the need of more effective cooperation, but with full respect for the sovereignty and the right of each nation and without allowing the public forces of another country to go into the other country when waging this battle.”

De la Madrid reportedly told senators Wednesday that he had directed his attorney general, Sergio Garcia Ramirez, to discuss the issue with Atty. Gen. Edwin Meese III. The two attorneys general conferred Thursday.

Sen. Alan Cranston (D-Calif.) quoted the Mexican president as saying the issue of “hot pursuit” of planes flown by drug smugglers is “a difficult problem, but by collaborating we could be able to do that.”

Sen. Lloyd Bentsen (D-Tex.) said the problem arises when low-flying planes carrying drugs slip back across the Mexican border after aircraft manned by U.S. authorities give chase.

De la Madrid conferred with members of Congress on Wednesday after meeting at the White House with President Reagan and members of his Cabinet to discuss drug smuggling and other issues.

‘Declaration of War’

“What we really hoped for in this visit was a joint declaration of war against drug trafficking, and I think that’s what you saw,” a senior Administration official said.

The official, speaking on condition he not be identified, said neither Mexico nor the United States underestimate “the wealth or viciousness of the opposition.”

“Both presidents,” he said, “mentioned that one of the reasons we needed to work together was the type of people who we’re dealing with in drug traffickers--that is to say, very, very rich murderers.”