The fourth meeting of the Working Group on Counter-Narcotics, part of the Doha Process, was convened at the Grand Kabul Hotel, hosted by UNAMA, with participants joining both in-person and online.
Hafiz Zia Takal, Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced on his X account that the meeting featured representatives from various ministries of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, including Foreign Affairs, Interior, Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, and Public Health. Attendees also included representatives from UNAMA, relevant UN agencies, international and regional organizations, the European Union, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, as well as ambassadors and diplomats from multiple countries.
During the discussions, representatives of the Islamic Emirate highlighted the significant reduction in opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan, attributing this success to the directives of the esteemed Amir al-Muminin, Supreme Leader of the Islamic Emirate. They noted that opium poppy cultivation has now decreased to nearly zero.
The representatives elaborated on achievements, challenges, and proposals concerning law enforcement, alternative livelihoods, and the treatment of drug addicts. According to Bakhtar News Agency, they emphasized Afghanistan’s demonstrated will and capacity to effectively combat narcotics. They reiterated that while anti-narcotics measures are crucial within Afghanistan, their benefits extend regionally and globally, requiring shared responsibility, joint investment, and cooperation based on mutual trust.
Concerns were raised regarding synthetic drugs, with officials noting that the raw materials for these substances are sourced outside Afghanistan. If unaddressed, the impact could affect not only Afghanistan but also the wider region and the world.
UNAMA and various international bodies commended Afghanistan’s efforts in combating narcotics, particularly noting the significant reduction in opium cultivation since the ban was enacted, which they described as a historic achievement.
Many countries and organizations pledged their cooperation and support in this fight, advocating for enhanced coordination and interaction on counter-narcotics within the framework of the Doha Process and through bilateral channels.
Participants emphasized the importance of ensuring alternative livelihood opportunities for farmers and implementing effective measures for the treatment and reintegration of addicts into society to sustain these achievements.
