Pubdate: Thu, 24 Jun 2010
Source: Gulf Times (Qatar)
Copyright: Gulf Times Newspaper, 2010
Contact:  http://www.gulf-times.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3835

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.
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart