National Information and Analytical Center for Drug Control under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan holds a side event on the margins of the 65th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs

On 18 March, the National Information and Analytical Center for Drug Control under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan organized an online side event “Uzbekistan’s experience in combatting illicit drug trafficking. Strengthening regional cross-border cooperation to prevent drug trafficking in Central Asia” on the margins of the 65th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs.

The event brought together representatives from UNODC, law enforcement agencies of Uzbekistan and neighboring countries, the diplomatic corps and international organizations accredited in Uzbekistan, Drug Control Agency under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, INL, CARICC, SCO, and others.   

“The evolving situation in Afghanistan is posing complex challenges to regional as well as international peace and security. Afghanistan accounts for some 85% of the world’s opium production, part of which is being trafficked through the northern route. Fostering greater interagency and cross-border cooperation is the only way forward for achieving our shared vision to build a more inclusive and fairer future, to make the region safer from drugs and crime, as well as healthy for the benefit of our generation and for future generations to come,” said Ms. Ashita Mittal, UNODC Regional Representative for Central Asia, who moderated the event. 

“Taking into account the trends in the development of the drug situation in the country and Central Asia, the Government of Uzbekistan pays special attention to countering the drug threat. Uzbekistan will continue to actively promote the adoption and implementation of the appropriate measures that meet the interests of the state security of Central Asian countries to ensure stability in the region,” said Mr. Olim Narzullaev, Director of the National Information and Analytical Center for Drug Control under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in his opening speech. 

Mr. Olim Narzullaev highlighted the notable contribution of the UNODC Cross-Border Cooperation and Establishment of the Interagency Mobile Teams in Uzbekistan initiatives to effectively countering drug trafficking and organized crime, both in Uzbekistan and in the region. In particular, he emphasized the effectiveness of Border Liaison Offices in intercepting large shipments of narcotic drugs.

The presentations were followed by an exchange of views and questions and answers. 

 

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For further information, please contact:

Nurangez Abdulhamidova

Communication and External Relations Officer

UNODC Regional Office for Central Asia (Dushanbe)

Email: nurangez.abdulhamidova[at]un.org