Islamabad, Sep 5: Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to stepping up efforts and collaborating with other nations to jointly realize the vision of a global community free from drug misuse.
At a side event on combating the global drug problem, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, the deputy permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, stated, “Our efforts must be guided by the need to address and counter all aspects of the world drug problem–the entire chain starting from illicit cultivation to demand reduction.”
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Permanent Missions of Russia, Pakistan, China, Cuba, Egypt, Singapore, and Uzbekistan co-hosted the side event, which took place on Wednesday at UN headquarters.
The Pakistani envoy stated that the drug problem in the globe still poses a significant threat to international security, safety, and health as well as the socioeconomic development and general well-being of individuals, families, and society. Ambassador Jadoon reminded the participants, “We are committed to addressing this issue through joint efforts grounded in the principle of common and shared responsibility.”
In response to the global drug crisis, he added, Pakistan was adopting a comprehensive administrative framework as a responsible member of the international community. As part of an all-encompassing counter-narcotics strategy, the Pakistani government was developing a zero-tolerance policy in this area to battle the global menace of illicit substances.
As a frontline state in combating the spread of opiates and synthetic substances emanating from the region, Ambassador Jadoon said Pakistan continues to display leadership in the battle against drug trafficking and abuse despite limited resources and technology gaps. He declared, “Pakistan is unwavering in its efforts to protect society and the globe from the devastating effects of illicit drugs.”
“We will remain committed to fighting this issue with unwavering determination by working closely with the international community.” The counter-narcotics activities of Pakistan were also presented by Ambassador Jadoon. These initiatives include a gender strategy and advocacy plan, a gender-neutral policy, drug demand reduction campaigns, improved treatment and rehabilitation, and a strict precursor control regime.
“Let us reaffirm our commitment to stepping up our joint efforts at the national, regional, international, and sub-regional levels as we tackle the complex issue of the global drug problem together.”
