Preventing drug use is the most cost-effective approach to promote healthy communities, says PM

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) –  Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that preventing drug use before it begins is the most cost-effective and common-sense approach to promote safe and healthy communities.

In a message on the occasion of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, he said that Pakistan is working closely with international organizations to address the challenges stemming from illicit drugs. “Pakistan is a signatory to all global conventions and protocols related to prevention of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.”

The Prime Minister said that easy availability of synthetic drugs pose dangers to the general public, especially the youth, which make up more than sixty percent of Pakistan's population. “We must work collectively to protect young people from the risks of drug abuse and safeguard their health and wellbeing.”

On the other hand, President Dr Arif Alvi has stressed the need to sensitize students and parents about drug abuse through workshops and seminars with help of media, civil society and educational institutions. “The Higher Education Commission has already been directed to implement a strict policy to counter drug abuse in higher educational institutions.”

The President commended that the Ministry of Narcotics Control for the measures it has taken to combat the trafficking of illicit drugs and mitigating the detrimental impacts of drug abuse. “We are committed to make Pakistan a model country in the region and beyond, in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.”