First lady in Dominican Republic to back storm aid, democracy

Hillary Rodham Clinton was in the Dominican Republic Thursday to show U.S. support for hurricane relief efforts and the Caribbean country's progress under democracy.

The first lady arrived late Thursday from Guatemala, continuing a tour of storm-ravaged Central America and the Caribbean.The chancellor for foreign affairs, Eduardo de la Torre, and other dignitaries greeted her at Santo Domingo's international airport.

Hillary Clinton was expected to visit a vocational education center Friday and meet with leaders of civic organizations before attending receptions with President Leonel Fernandez and diplomatic leaders. She also was to visit San Pedro de Macoris, about 70 miles east of the capital, to tour a hospital being rebuilt with U.S. help.

Hillary Clinton's planned September visit was pre-empted by Hurricane Georges, which killed at least 283 Dominicans and left thousands homeless. Dominicans are hoping her visit will spur a new infusion of U.S. aid.

The trip also was seen as support for the Dominican Republic's steps toward a stronger democracy following more than 30 years under the heavy-handed rule of former President Joaquin Balaguer.

Fernandez, elected in 1996 in the cleanest elections in the country's history, has won international praise for his moderate government but has been struggling to push his programs through a hostile legislature.

The first lady was to leave Saturday for Haiti.