KABUL (BNA): The Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs stated that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has a clear stance against narcotics, prohibiting the cultivation and trade of any type of drug. Mawlawi Abdul Kabir made these remarks during a meeting with Roza Otunbayeva, the Head of UNAMA, and her delegation.
According to a statement from ARG, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir met with Ms. Roza Otunbayeva, who praised the Islamic Emirate’s stance and commitment to combatting narcotics.
She mentioned UNAMA’s efforts to organize a meeting involving several countries and organizations to discuss alternative crops to poppies, treatment for drug addicts, and support for Afghan farmers. She stated that representatives from the Islamic Emirate would also be invited to participate in this discussion.
Ms. Otunbayeva emphasized the need for substantial efforts to mitigate the impact of decades-long drug production and trade and to provide alternative livelihoods for the people. She also briefed the Deputy PM on her recent visits to the southern provinces of Afghanistan and shared that UNAMA’s three-month report on Afghanistan would be presented to the United Nations Security Council.
Meanwhile, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir highlighted that the Islamic Emirate has established a high-level commission for effective counter-narcotics efforts.
He continued that following discussions with relevant Emirate departments, a joint meeting with international organizations, including UNAMA, will be held. He reiterated that the Islamic Emirate maintains a firm position against narcotics and will not permit the cultivation or trade of any narcotic substances.
He further stated that international support and assistance from partner organizations and countries can be beneficial in the fight against drugs. The Deputy PM Mawlawi Abdul Kabir also urged UNAMA to share Afghanistan’s recent developments and progress with the Security Council.
