In his message on the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Prime Minister said that Pakistan today reiterates its commitment with the international community to take all possible steps to eliminate drug use and illegal trafficking.

He said that drug use and trafficking pose a serious threat not only to human lives but also to economic and social stability.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan said that the theme of this year’s World Day is ‘Long-standing Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Measures for a Drug-Free Future’, which highlights the seriousness of this global problem.

Shahbaz Sharif said that the government is further expanding national capacity building, effective coordination among institutions and cooperation with international partners to eradicate drug trafficking.

He said that the society can be made safe from this scourge only through complete eradication of illegal networks.

Terming protecting the youth from drugs as a national priority, the Prime Minister said that the establishment of drug-free educational institutions is very important to achieve this goal.

He said that the Anti-Narcotics Force is taking effective steps in the areas of prevention of drug trafficking, demand reduction, public awareness, treatment and rehabilitation, while the government is giving equal importance to law enforcement, prevention and rehabilitation.

Shahbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the martyrs of the Anti-Narcotics Force who sacrificed their lives in efforts to save the country from the scourge of drugs. He said that their sacrifices are a source of pride for the nation.

He said that the federal government, in collaboration with provincial governments, is expanding awareness and prevention programs in educational institutions, while treatment and rehabilitation facilities are also being improved.

Shahbaz Sharif said that Pakistan is further strengthening international partnerships through intelligence sharing, joint operations and regional cooperation to effectively combat illegal drug trafficking.

At the end of his message, the Prime Minister urged parents, teachers, educational institutions, social leaders, media and youth to play their full role in the national struggle against drugs, because building a healthy and safe society is a common national responsibility for all of us.