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Statement by Ambassador Wang Min at the High Level Thematic Debate in Support of the Process towards the 2016 Special Session of the General Assembly on the World Drug Problem

2015-05-07 11:37

Mr. President,

I wish to thank you for convening this high-level thematic debate, as well as the experts for their presentations.

In today’s world, the situation of narcotic drugs remains grim and complex. New psychoactive substances keep emerging. There is rampant use of non-controlled chemicals in producing narcotic drugs, and the drug-related criminal activities on the internet has soared. Drug-related crimes are closely related to terrorism. Countering the world drug problem remains a long uphill journey. It is therefore imperative for all countries to enhance cooperation in this field to achieve win-win results. The 2016 UNGASS on the World Drug Problem will be an important platform for further international cooperation on drug control and jointly and effectively addressing the challenges. The Chinese delegation would like to make the following observations in this regard:

First, we must uphold the authority of the existing drug control system. Elimination of the scourge of drugs is humanity’s shared responsibility. The three international drug-control Conventions and the 2009 Political Declaration and Plan of Action must continue to serve as our fundamental guidelines. In particular, the potential of the three Conventions can be tapped further with full respect for their purposes, and we should better implement the principles of “common and shared responsibility” and “comprehensive, integrated and balanced approach” identified in the Political Declaration and Plan of Action, in order to seek the maximum degree of international consensus.

Secondly, we must firmly oppose legalizing narcotic drugs. In recent years, there have been voices calling for the legalization of narcotic drugs and raising doubts about the three UN Conventions on drug control and other existing international drug control mechanisms. This is not conducive to the healthy development of international drug control. We must fully recognize the severely harmful effects of drugs on human physical and mental health, and firmly oppose all forms of legalization of narcotic drugs.

Thirdly, we must respect relevant GA resolutions and rules of procedure. The leading role of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs in the preparatory process towards the UNGASS must be guaranteed on the basis of relevant GA resolutions, and efforts must be made to enhance communication with the PGA so as to benefit from his assistance and guidance. NGOs can make useful contributions to the session in compliance with GA rules of procedure and past practices.

China is an active partner in international drug control cooperation. We stand ready to work with all sides, participate in a constructive spirit in the preparatory process, and make vigorous contributions to the success of the 2016 UNGASS on drug control.

Thank you, Mr. President.

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