ISLAMABAD: The illicit drugs are one of the biggest threats to human lives, health and stability as around 246 million addicts worldwide and their families suffer from miseries caused by this menace.
Estimates reveal that more than 500 deaths per day are caused by illicit drugs overdose. At an International Drug Enforcement Conference (IDEC) held recently at Lima, Peru, Director General (DG), Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), Major General Nasir Dilawar Shah said international cooperation is pivotal in regional and global concerted efforts.
The DG not only headed Pakistani delegation but also led 24 members South and Central Asia Region Working Group. The conference was attended by representatives of 140 countries.
He said world must continue such enduring efforts to enrich teamwork among drug law enforcement agencies regionally and internationally through sharing of best practices, robust information sharing, staff training and enhancing coordination involved in drug production and trafficking.
He emphasized that issues lacking consensus may be selectively adopted as per ground realities rather than universally imposed.
The DG said diversity in regional environment calls for regional and sub-regional approaches in accordance with the prevailing regional dictates and in conformity with the United Nations Conventions.
He said international community ought to realize that despite scarcity of resources, the regional countries are doing their best. The finest way to eliminate drugs is to counter their manufacturing at source or closer to source with stringent law enforcement.
He re-affirmed resolve to all regional countries in stemming out the menace of drugs from region and extending full support to partners and international community.
The DG expressed gratitude to government of Peru for hosting this meeting and also acknowledged commitment of US Drug Enforcement Administration for organizing the mega event.
It may be mentioned here that the IDEC forum is organized annually under the management of Drug Enforcement Administration of USA which provides a platform for sharing of problems having regional and international dimensions.
Fact remains, drugs inferno is engulfing the whole world irrespective of creed, cast, nationality, religion and social standing, hence require much more to be done than ever before.
