The State of Qatar warns of increased drug production and consumption worldwide, stressing the need to implement international drug control conventions. At the 68th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, Qatar’s Ambassador highlighted the failure of joint efforts against illicit drugs while acknowledging some positive developments. Qatar supports enhanced UNODC capabilities and takes pride in its own drug prevention strategies.
The State of Qatar has underscored the global challenges posed by drug production and consumption, emphasizing the necessity of fulfilling commitments under three international drug control conventions and ministerial declarations. This call for adherence to international agreements was voiced by His Excellency Mr. Jassim Yaqoub Al-Hammadi, Qatar’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations and International Organizations in Vienna, during the 68th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs.
Ambassador Al-Hammadi noted the inadequacy of international efforts in combating illicit drug production and trafficking. The forthcoming 2024 World Drug Report reveals concerning trends, including record cocaine production, rising drug usage, especially among youth, and an increase in jurisdictions permitting recreational cannabis use. Despite these challenges, Qatar seeks a drug-free world.
Despite the prevailing issues, there are some positive developments. Ambassador Al-Hammadi referenced a significant decline in opium production in Afghanistan and Syria’s efforts to dismantle captagon labs. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation in supporting Afghan farmers through alternative development initiatives and economic alternatives to illicit drug trade.
Qatar has expressed its support for the 2024 World Drug Report’s conclusions, which identified the need to address root causes such as poverty and lack of development that compel individuals, particularly youth, into drug cultivation and consumption. The nation reaffirmed the vital role of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime in addressing global drug issues.
Qatar has urged for increased support for the UNODC to bolster its capabilities in providing technical assistance and capacity-building to Member States. The country highlighted the current financial challenges faced by the UNODC that have impeded its operations, including delays in the reporting process on global drug trafficking and the organization’s subsidiary meetings.
Ambassador Al-Hammadi shared Qatar’s initiatives to adhere to the drug control conventions and its ongoing support for the UNODC. He reiterated Qatar’s commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking through participation in the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats.
Concluding his statement, Ambassador Al-Hammadi expressed pride in Qatar’s national efforts to protect its citizens from drug-related issues, attributed to the National Drug Control Strategy. This strategy integrates clear objectives, flexible programs, and a focus on preventive measures aimed at safeguarding the youth through education and awareness initiatives.
In summary, the State of Qatar highlights the urgent need for global cooperation and commitment to international drug control conventions to combat rising drug production and consumption. Despite facing serious challenges, positive trends exist, and Qatar emphasizes the indispensable role of international organizations in tackling these issues. Furthermore, Qatar showcases its commitment through national strategies aimed at protecting its populace from the dangers of drugs.
Original Source: www.gulf-times.com
