18 December 2018, ANKARA. A two day interaction between the counter-narcotics intelligence officials of the Islamic Republics of Afghanistan and Pakistan concluded at the Turkish International Academy against Drugs and Transnational Organized Crime (TADOC) Ankara, Turkey today. Both sides reaffirmed their resolve to strike against drug trafficking networks through intelligence-led operations.

The counter-narcotics authorities from the two countries had agreed to join hands under the Triangular Initiative forums. Through this first workshop between their technical experts, the neighbouring countries fine-tuned modalities for conducting controlled delivery operations, with the objective of dismantling transnational drug trafficking organizations.

In his welcome speech Mr. Cesar Guedes, UNODC Representative in Pakistan noted, 'We understand that unlike most criminal offences, the smuggling and distribution of drugs typically occurs between at least two entities, neither of whom could be classified as a victim'. He thanked KOM (Anti-Smuggling and Organized Crime Department) of the Turkish National Police for facilitating the workshop. He also expressed his gratitude to the Government of Japan for its support to the regional countries in advancing towards a peaceful and prosperous future.

Mr. Selcuk Sevgel, Deputy Head KOM Department, Turkish National Police acknowledged the close partnership between UNODC and TADOC for over two decades: 'Turkey has always encouraged brotherhood and cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan as the two neighboring Islamic Republics', he added. Mr. Fatih Ceylan, Director TADOC; Mr. Akifumi Fukuoka, Embassy of Japan; Mr. Iqbal Habibi, Embassy of Afghanistan; and Mr. Umer Siddique, Embassy of Pakistan were also present on this occasion.

Since its inception in 2007, UNODC has facilitated the Triangular Initiative forum, which serves as a cornerstone of the regional approach to drug control. It is supported by the Regional Programme for Afghanistan and the Neighboring Countries, encompassing a range of initiatives to reduce poppy cultivation, trafficking, and drug abuse. UNODC Country Offices in Afghanistan and Pakistan are strengthening regional partnerships, and contributing to the capacity-building of their national counterparts through funding support provided by the Government of Japan.