EU’s CADAP to support Uzbekistan drug policy with focus on youth and prevention — Ernest Robelló

Speaking to Kun.uz during an international forum in Samarkand, Robelló noted that the programme’s eighth phase will focus on regional cooperation, prevention, and youth engagement.

“The priorities we have seen from the President of Uzbekistan are highly relevant, specifically, this balanced approach within drug policy, weighing security aspects against health aspects,” he said.

The conference, titled “Countering Transnational Drug Threats to Public Health and Security,” has brought together representatives from more than 50 countries and over 500 experts to address the growing challenges of the narcotics trade.

Robelló emphasized that CADAP would support Uzbekistan’s strategy in key areas including prevention, public health, and security, with a particular emphasis on young people. He added that cooperation with international partners, including UNODC and Civipol, would be central to the programme’s next phase.

The forum is expected to facilitate deeper discussions on modernizing anti-drug strategies and fostering a more integrated approach between law enforcement and public health sectors to mitigate the impact of transnational organized crime.