AWARENESS DRIVE AGAINST DRUG ABUSE

Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to fight drug abuse by observing the
International Anti-Drugs Day, under the patronage of HE the Minister
of State for Interior Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani.

Various programmes and seminars were held at Villaggio Mall under the
slogan 'Be Sporty, Be Healthy' to increase the awareness of the
community on the perils of drug abuse. Prominent officials from
various ministries attended the event.

Director general of Public Security and Head of the Permanent
Committee for Drug and Alcohol Affairs (PCDAA) Staff Major General
Saad bin Jassim al-Kholiafi said, "The efforts of the countries
around the world are united in observing the International Anti-Drugs
Day and Illicit trafficking on June 26 every year in order to
emphasise on the international community the importance of the
solidarity against this dangerous scourge. This day is a reminder to
all communities on the dangers of drugs and the serious health
problems caused by drug abuse and its illicit trafficking."

Staff Major General al-Kholaifi said, "Drug addiction has become a
global problem due to the advancements in technology, speed of
communication and transportation. This has made drugs abuse a
trans-national crime."

Highlighting the efforts of Qatar in combating drug abuse, the
chairman of the PCDAA said, "The State of Qatar is keen to
participate in the international community's initiatives to confront
this scourge. Qatar has extended maximum support to regional and
international efforts to curb this menace."

The campaign against drug crimes follows an integrated and balanced
approach, consistent with the principles and provisions of
international conventions on narcotic drugs. It also strengthens the
ongoing co-ordination and exchanges of information and updates with
other countries and international organisations related to drug
control. This has reflected the will of Qatar and its determination
to fight the scourge of drugs which is rejected by our religion,
customs and traditions. The state is seeking to address this problem
with a realistic strategy that includes control, prevention and
treatment, he said.

Secretary of PCDAA Captain Ibraheem Mohamed al-Sumaih said, "Fifteen
government and non-governmental bodies are participating in the
awareness event that will continue for five days. Seminars in Arabic
and English languages are being held to highlight the ills of drugs
on society. Religious scholars and social experts will also lecture
on prevention of drug abuse."

The Ministry of Interior will broadcast awareness messages related to
drug prevention and its dangers through radio and television and will
display awareness slogans on sign boards on main streets and highways
in the country, officials added.