VIENTIANE, Dec. 15 (Xinhua) -- Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has highlighted nine issues that must be addressed to resolve the country's burgeoning drug problems.
The prime minister pointed to these issues at the closing ceremony of a meeting on Wednesday to sum up the progress made under the National Agenda on the Resolution of the Drug Problem, which has been in effect from 2021-2023, and future plans to curb drug abuse until the end of 2025, Lao News Agency reported on Friday.
Certain aspects of these endeavors require special attention to ensure the goals are met, the premier said.
He urged officials to develop the agenda into detailed plans, programs and projects.
Officials were advised to define the rights, duties and responsibilities of the National Drug Remedial Committee and to appoint local drug remedial committees with the participation of all relevant local sectors to ensure comprehensive fulfillment of the agenda by 2025.
Awareness-raising must be stepped up to inform people about the harmful effects of drugs and this information should be published in all media channels, according to the report.
Local authorities were instructed to monitor, prevent and resolve the theft of plants that contain addictive substances, especially in northern and central provinces.
Officials were also advised to supervise the operations of drug rehabilitation centers, provide addicts with vocational training, and increase the efficiency of treatment provided at district hospitals.
Greater emphasis on cooperation with friendly countries in the region should be encouraged to curb drug trade in border areas, said the report. ■
