ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is enhancing the capacities of all institutions engaged in counter-narcotics efforts, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Friday, as Pakistan marked the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
In a message on X, the prime minister said the government was strengthening relevant institutions and expanding cooperation with provincial governments and international partners to combat narcotics.
"In collaboration with provincial governments, awareness and prevention programmes in educational institutions are being expanded, while treatment and rehabilitation facilities are being further strengthened,” he said.
Describing drug abuse and trafficking as a major global challenge, the PM put an emphasis on their "multidimensional human, economic, and social costs" and the "devastating consequences for societies worldwide."
He added that Pakistan was also deepening international cooperation through intelligence sharing, joint operations and regional coordination to counter illicit trafficking networks.
Referring to this year's theme, "World drug problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative responses," he said it reflected the "grave and evolving nature of the global drug problem."
Pakistan remained "steadfast and fully committed" to tackling threats linked to narcotic drugs, including emerging substances, illicit trafficking networks and the growing availability of drugs, particularly among young people.
The statement also stressed the need to strengthen national capacities, improve institutional coordination and expand international cooperation, adding that "only through the complete dismantling of illicit networks can we ensure a safer and more secure society."
Calling the protection of young people a national priority, the prime minister said ensuring drug-free educational institutions was "among the most important steps toward safeguarding future generations."
According to the statement, the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) is continuing efforts to prevent drug trafficking, reduce drug demand, raise public awareness and facilitate treatment and rehabilitation, reflecting what it described as "a balanced and comprehensive strategy to address the drug menace."
The prime minister also paid tribute to ANF personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
"I pay a special tribute to the brave martyrs of the Anti-Narcotics Force who laid down their lives in service of the nation. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering sense of duty remain a source of immense pride for all of us."
He also called on parents, teachers, educational institutions, community leaders, the media and young people to help raise awareness and promote prevention, saying building "a healthy and resilient society" was a shared national responsibility.
President pays tribute to front-line workers
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari also marked the day by paying tribute to those involved in efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking.
In his message, the president acknowledged the contributions of law enforcement agencies, healthcare workers, educators, counsellors, and civil society organizations working to address the challenge.
"On this day, I pay tribute to all those serving on the front lines of this effort, including law enforcement personnel, healthcare professionals, educators, counsellors, and members of civil society," he said.
"Their dedication contributes significantly to protecting our communities and strengthening our collective response to this challenge."
