Clinton Says U.S. Did Not Support Greek Democracy: Regrets Support for Junta in 1967

Beginning of article

ATHENS - President Clinton said yesterday that the United States failed to support democracy when it backed the military junta that took over Greece in 1967.

"The United States allowed its interest in prosecuting the Cold War to prevail over its interest - I should say its obligation - to support democracy, which was, after all, the cause for which we fought the Cold War. It is important that we acknowledge that," Mr. Clinton told business leaders before ending his 24-hour visit to Greece.

Mr. Clinton acknowledged the key anti-American grievance a day after Friday's violent protests marred his trip to the Greek capital.

"I strongly believe that protests should be peaceful. Therefore, I deeply regret the Greeks who had their property injured and who suffered losses through these demonstrations," Mr. Clinton said after talks with …