Samarkand Hosts Discussions on Combating Transnational Drug Threats

Today, the global drug problem is becoming increasingly severe, threatening the future of humanity. According to the UN, nearly 300 million people worldwide have used drugs at least once, and over 600,000 people die annually due to this scourge.

In response to this alarming situation, a major international forum dedicated to combating transnational drug threats has opened in Samarkand, organized by the Drug and Firearms Control Agency under the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan in cooperation with the UNODC. Representatives from nearly 50 countries and over 20 international organizations, including the EU, SCO, CIS, WHO, and the World Customs Organization, are participating.

With nearly 500 international experts, the event serves as a global dialogue platform. At the opening ceremony, Saida Mirziyoyeva and UN representative Bo Mathiasen highlighted the urgency of the issue.

In his message, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized that drug trafficking has entered a dangerous new phase, utilizing encrypted communications, crypto-assets, and offshore financial schemes. The President noted that the most effective way to combat drug trafficking is the complete elimination of its financial sources.

Uzbekistan is taking systematic measures; recently, the detection of clandestine drug labs has increased significantly, and the activities of 35 criminal groups have been neutralized. For the first time, an international youth summit is being held within the forum, alongside an exhibition showcasing the latest innovative technological solutions for drug control.