The Colombian Defence Minister, Rodrigo Lloreda, has said American military aid, which is designed to assist in the war against drugs would not be used against leftist guerrillas.

Mr Lloreda was responding to a Washington Post report on Sunday that the United States is substantially increasing its aid and ties to the Colombian military despite its long record of human rights abuses.

The Defence minister said the US aid was only used for logistical support of the Colombian police and army in anti-drugs campaign.