Qatar Joins World Countries to Observe World Day to Combat Drugs

Doha, June 25 (QNA) - The State of Qatar is joining world countries to mark the UN International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which falls on June 26 each year, to raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represent to society. This day is supported by individuals, communities and various organizations all over the world. Commenting on the occasion, HE Director General of Public Security and Chairman of the Standing Committee on Drugs and Alcohol Major General Saad bin Jassim Al Khulaifi underlined Qatar's insistence to fight this dangerous scourge by all means and possibilities to curb its spread among the community. He noted that Qatar's keenness to participate with the international community in its efforts aimed to counter the problem comes from its deep belief in the importance of international cooperation in addressing this destructive phenomenon in order to form a balanced and integrated approach that is consistent with the provisions of international conventions on drugs, besides enhancing cooperation, coordination and exchange of experiences and information with all countries and organizations and relevant bodies. He warned that drugs is among the most serious social and psychological problems faced by communities on all regional and international levels, including the Arab and Islamic societies. He explained that the seriousness of this scourge lies in the multiplicity of its dimensions and its grave consequences that impede the growth and prosperity of society. The world is facing many challenges related to the development of different techniques and methods for the production and promotion of drugs which pose a threat to the security of human societies. In this sense, the State of Qatar implemented the fifth and final phase plan of Qatar's National Strategy to Combat Drugs (2010-201) which included the implementation of several programs and activities, involving ministries, institutions and relevant bodies, as well as civil society organizations, Maj. Gen. Al Khulaifi said. He stressed that the strategy is comprehensiveness and integrated and has a clear vision in order to achieve the main objectives relating to reducing the supply and demand for drugs and the prevention of its hazards and impacts. Many relevant bodies in the state are taking part in marking the day along with the Standing Committee on Drugs and Alcohol by organizing several media activities and awareness campaigns to spread their awareness message to the largest possible segment of the citizens and residents of the State of Qatar. By resolution 42/112 of 7 December 1987, the UN General Assembly decided to observe June 26 as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse. This resolution recommended further action with regard to the report and conclusions of the 1987 International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. (QNA)