Our Drugs are Better Than Your Drugs

I've still only read portions of the proposed U.S. Colombia Free Trade agreement. There's some curiosity about whether or not the agreement pertains directly to the drug war in any way. So far I haven't seen any, but I certainly found this section to be quite ironic:

Section E: Other Measures

Article 2.12: Distinctive Products

1. Peru and Colombia shall recognize Bourbon Whiskey and Tennessee Whiskey, which is a straight Bourbon Whiskey authorized to be produced only in the State of Tennessee, as distinctive products of the United States. Accordingly, Peru and Colombia shall not permit the sale of any product as Bourbon Whiskey or Tennessee Whiskey, unless it has been manufactured in the United States in accordance with the laws and regulations of the United States governing the manufacture of Bourbon Whiskey and Tennessee Whiskey.

For those who know the history of cocaine use, it was not always a drug that people ingested as a powder. It was commonly consumed as a drink, even by European royals and several Popes. Both drugs were made illegal in the early 20th century in this country, but only alcohol prohibition was eventually lifted. In South America, however, the coca leaf has remained a popular stimulant, largely because it's suited for the high elevation of the Andes. Both drugs have their dangers, but the drug that's part of our cultural heritage is worthy of specific trade protections, while the drug that's part of their cultural heritage must be wiped off the face of the earth at all costs.