UN drug control watchdog praises China's efforts

The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) on Thursday praised the Chinese government's political will and commitment towards the implementation of international drug control treaties.

The INCB sent a mission to China in January last year in which the group found that "in China drug control is not only incorporated into the program for national economic and social development, but is also made an important duty of governments at all levels," INCB's said in its annual report.

Noting that China now plays "an increasing role" in drug control in East and South-East Asia, the report also praised the fact that "China has made achievements in various areas of drug control through bilateral and multilateral cooperation."

Due to the serious illegal manufacture of amphetamine-type stimulant in Asia, the board hoped that the Chinese government could "further strengthen its cooperation, particularly with neighboring countries and play a more active role in combating this problem."

Moreover, it also encouraged China "to take the measures necessary to ensure that progress is made in implementing the new laws, as well as in combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the country."

The Vienna-based INCB is an independent judicial body elected by United Nations members to monitor the implementation of world drug control conventions.

Source: Xinhua