Mirziyoyev calls for stronger fight against drug threats

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addressed participants of an international forum in Samarkand dedicated to combating transnational drug threats, emphasizing the need to strengthen global cooperation in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.

In his address, the head of state noted that modern drug-related crime is rapidly changing in form and methods, including the active use of digital technologies, encrypted communications, and cross-border financial schemes. According to him, this requires coordinated and innovative responses from the international community.

Mirziyoyev drew attention to United Nations data indicating that more than 300 million people worldwide are affected by drug use, while around 600,000 people die each year from drug-related consequences.

It was noted that Uzbekistan considers the fight against drug addiction and drug-related crime a national priority. The country has adopted a National Strategy on Combating Drug Addiction and Drug Crime, while interagency cooperation and preventive measures have been strengthened.

According to the data cited in the address, the detection of drug-related crimes has increased in recent years in Uzbekistan, along with the volume of seized narcotics and intensified efforts to eliminate underground laboratories and online resources involved in distribution.

Particular attention is given to prevention among young people. It was emphasized that a significant share of such crimes is committed by young individuals, making the issue especially sensitive for the country’s future. In this regard, Uzbekistan is expanding educational and public initiatives, including the volunteer movement “Anti-Narco” and projects involving artificial intelligence.

Among international initiatives, the creation of a unified digital platform for information exchange between law enforcement agencies of different countries was proposed, as well as the development of AI-based tools for early detection of drug trafficking.

Proposals were also made to strengthen control over financial flows linked to the drug trade, including cryptocurrency transactions and offshore zones, as well as to develop new international standards for financial transparency.

In addition, the address suggested establishing an international platform for developing treatment and rehabilitation methods for synthetic drug addiction, as well as a Central Asian Association of Narcologists, which could be based in Samarkand.

The President stressed that the fight against drugs must remain a shared responsibility of the international community and expressed confidence that the forum’s outcomes will contribute to strengthening global security and public health.