Qatar Advocates for Global Support for Afghanistan’s Former Poppy Farmers

Qatar calls for international support to assist Afghanistan’s former poppy farmers with alternative livelihoods. The plea was made by envoy Jassim Yaqoub Al-Hammadi at a UN drug commission session, highlighting positive indicators in the global drug fight, including a decline in opium production. Collaborative efforts are needed to implement development programs and reduce reliance on drug cultivation.

Qatar’s government has called on the international community to assist Afghanistan’s former poppy farmers by providing alternate livelihoods. This appeal was expressed by Jassim Yaqoub Al-Hammadi, Qatar’s envoy to the United Nations, during the 68th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs held in Vienna. Al-Hammadi highlighted some positive trends in the global fight against drugs, including a significant reduction in opium production in Afghanistan.

At the session, he emphasized the need for collaborative international efforts to support Afghan farmers through alternative development programs, noting that these initiatives could help reduce reliance on drug cultivation. Al-Hammadi underscored the importance of implementing commitments under international drug control conventions and enhancing support for the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, which is responsible for developing drug policy globally.

Afghanistan has been a prominent producer of opium poppy, accounting for an overwhelming percentage of the world’s heroin supply. In 2021, the country produced over 90 percent of illicit heroin globally, underscoring the urgent need for viable economic alternatives for its farmers to prevent ongoing dependence on the drug trade.

In conclusion, Qatar has taken a proactive stance in calling for international support to assist former poppy farmers in Afghanistan with alternative economic opportunities. This initiative aims to mitigate the challenges faced by these farmers, particularly in light of Afghanistan’s history as a leading opium producer. Al-Hammadi’s statements at the recent UN session highlight the necessity for cooperative international approaches to address the complexities of drug cultivation and promote sustainable development.

Original Source: www.ariananews.af