Vietnam calls for int’l efforts against drugs

Vietnam calls for int’l efforts against drugs

Deputy Minister of Public Security, Sen. Lieut. Gen. Le Quy Vuong, has warned that the production and sale of amphetamine substances is becoming more sophisticated, allowing the psychoactive drug to spread widely.

Illustrative image (Source: VNA)

Speaking at the 57th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs, which opened in the Austrian capital Vienna on March 13, General Vuong called on the international community to better support countries confronted with the issue on a basis of constructive dialogue, equality, and respect of independence.

He said the Government of Vietnam has adopted an active, comprehensive and balanced approach to fighting drug abuse, focusing on preventive acts and awareness campaigns to appeal for public involvement.

Vietnam is always a responsible UN member, actively joining foreign peers in anti-crime, and anti-drug efforts at bilateral and multilateral forums, Vuong added.

UN Deputy Secretary General and Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Yuri Fedotov, in his opening remarks, said UNODC and its member states are combating drug abuse via support schemes and integrated solutions on law, health care and development.

He asked for active feedback in preparation for the UN General Assembly’s special session on drugs in 2016.

With nearly 1,000 delegates from UN member countries and non-governmental organisations, this year’s session focused on reviewing the implementation of the previously agreed Plan of Action. The strategy has focused on enforcing international conventions against money laundering, illicit drug abuse and trafficking and judicial cooperation.

On the occasion, Vietnam and member countries of the Mekong Sub-region anti-drug cooperation agreement held an exhibition and symposium introducing what the region has achieved during its fight against dangerous substances.

Established in 1946, the commission is part of the UN Economic and Social Council, in charge of policymaking relevant to the prevention and control of drugs, narcotics and precursors.

The session will run until March 21 with the adoption of a ministerial-level Joint Declaration.-VNA

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