Qatar calls for international action to protect people from drugs

Qatar has stressed upon prioritising assistance to developing countries to achieve the goals of sustainable development, as they are the key to political and social stability, calling for rapid and effective international action to protect people and future generations from drugs.
This came during Qatar’s statement at the 66th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), delivered by HE the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar Sultan bin Salmeen al-Mansouri.
He said that Qatar is proud to continue its active role in multilateral international action in various fields and upholding the values and principles of co-operation, partnership and solidarity in helping countries, peoples and societies suffering from economic crises, conflicts, poverty and debt.
HE al-Mansouri said that Qatar has provided many contributions, especially in the framework of strategic partnerships with the UN and other leading international institutions.
He cited the 5th UN Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5), which was hosted by Qatar earlier this month, as the latest example of these efforts, during which Qatar donated $60mn to support the Doha Programme of Action (DPoA) and build capacity in the least developed countries.
HE al-Mansouri also touched upon efforts made at the national level.
He said that Qatar has given priority to prevention efforts, educating society on the harm and dangers of drugs.
He added that this is one of the most important factors for the success of its policy in the field of prevention and drug control, in addition to law enforcement efforts that include monitoring Qatar’s air and sea ports, strict application of the law while updating national legislation in a way that allows quick response to changes in drug trafficking patterns and new methods of drug smuggling, while preserving the principles of Qatar’s constitution and with respect for human rights.
HE the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar also spoke on the World Drug Report 2022, the first report following the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
He said that the report presents a bleak picture of the drug situation in the world, with cocaine production reaching a record high.
Seizures of synthetic drugs have also increased dramatically, and markets for these drugs are expanding into new areas.
More young people are taking drugs than previous generations, while people who need treatment are unable to get it, especially women.