Vietnam attends UN special session on drug combat

New York (VNA) - A Vietnamese delegation led by Deputy Minister of Public Security Le Quy Vuong is participating in the Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly on the World Drug Problem (UNGASS), which opened at the UN headquarters in New York on April 19.

At the event, which runs until April 21, representatives from the UN member nations and international organisations have a chance to share viewpoints and bring out commitments to fighting drug problem that is negatively impacting the health, safety and prosperity of human beings.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, UN Deputy Secretary General Jan Eliasson said that the world drug problem affects virtually every nation and all aspects of society.

He noted that drug trafficking and organised criminal networks are fuelling violence and weakening institutions and the rule of law.

Poverty and inequality drive illicit drug production and use, he said, adding that the best prevention policy is working decisively and universally towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

The deputy secretary general said countering drug-related crime and corruption is imperative to achieve stable societies and effective institutions.

He added that that the challenges posed by the world drug problem require a global response that is effective and humane.-VNA