Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari has said that the democratic government is according highest priority to combat narcotics and has also taken several steps to control the menace through effective policy. In a message on International Drugs Day, President Zardari said drug trafficking is a major social evil that is threatening societies in more than one ways. He said narcotics-trade is increasingly being used by organized criminal syndicates to finance militancy and terrorism. The President said as a major victim of militancy, it was in Pakistan's national interest to be an active partner in the fight against drug trafficking. “We therefore welcome the observance of the International Drug Day today as it reminds us all to consider ways and means to step up cooperation across geographical boundaries to curb this menace,” he said. Zardari mentioned that the Anti-Narcotics Policy 2010 made in consultation with all relevant stakeholders in the country aims to strengthen coordination and control mechanism and mobilize the people for active participation in eradicating drugs. He said the policy also focuses on drug supply reduction, demand reduction and promoting international cooperation against drugs. The Drug Control Master Plan 2010-2014 has also been developed in accordance with international best practices, according to a report of the Associated Press.
