Steps taken against narcotic menace: Zardari

President Asif Ali Zardari has said that the democratic government is according highest priority to combat narcotics and has also taken several steps to control the menace through effective policy. In a message on International Drugs Day, President Zardari said drug trafficking is a major social evil that is threatening societies in more than one ways.
He said narcotic trade is increasingly being used by organised criminal syndicates to finance militancy and terrorism. The President said as a major victim of militancy, it was in Pakistan's national interest to be an active partner in the fight against drug trafficking. "We therefore, welcome the observance of the International Drug Day today as it reminds us all to consider ways and means to step up co-operation across geographical boundaries to curb this menace," he said.
Zardari mentioned that the Anti-Narcotics Policy 2010 made in consultation with all relevant stakeholders in the country to strengthen co-ordination and control mechanism and mobilise the people for active participation in eradicating drugs. He said the policy also focuses on drug supply reduction, demand reduction and promoting international co-operation against drugs. The Drug Control Master Plan 2010-2014 has also been developed in accordance with international best practices.
He said the government is also working closely with the United Nations and other international partners to strive towards a drug-free Pakistan and a drug free world. He said Pakistan is also a signatory to all UN and Saarc Conventions on Narcotics, adding that MoUs have been signed with a number of countries boosting International co-operation in drug control.
"On this international drug day, let us reiterate our resolve to not only make Pakistan drug and violence free but also play a lead role in the international community's drive to combat the menace of illicit drugs and narcotics," he said. Zardari also wished to compliment the Ministry of Narcotics Control, Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) and other law enforcing agencies for their efforts in combating drug trafficking and wish them success.