In his remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long emphasised that drugs are a major threat to humanity, causing severe health consequences, fostering crime, and endangering national development and stability.

Over the years, he said, the Party and State have issued and implemented numerous important policies and strategies to combat drugs-related crimes. The Government is currently developing a National Target Programme on Drug Prevention and Control through 2030.

From 2024 to date, authorities have uncovered and handled over 39,000 drug-related cases, arrested more than 68,000 suspects, and seized over 8.6 tonnes of drugs. Many large-scale inter-provincial and transnational trafficking rings have been dismantled.

Despite these efforts, drug prevention and control still face numerous challenges. Globally, nearly 300 million people use drugs, and more than 1,200 new psychoactive substances have emerged. In Vietnam, over 400,000 individuals are addicted to or use illegal drugs, with increasing usage among youth, especially students.

To intensify drug prevention and control efforts, the Deputy PM underlined the need to continue the effective implementation of relevant existing policies and laws. He called for early detection and prevention efforts at the grassroots level, including tightening oversight of high-risk sectors and legal activities involving drugs, as well as taking firm action to eliminate all forms of drug-related crimes.

He stressed the importance of enhancing the management and monitoring of drug users and addicts, eliminating drug hotspots and leveraging the national population database to improve tracking and oversight.

The Deputy Prime Minister proposed that resources be prioritised for the upgrading and modernisation of rehabilitation centres. He advocated for the application of technology in addiction treatment and the implementation of supportive measures to assist individuals in reintegrating into society and securing employment after rehabilitation.

Finally, he stressed the need to intensify public awareness efforts, through the use of digital tools, social media, and influential public figures, as well as expanding international cooperation in the fight against drugs.

He said he believes that with the strong commitment of all levels, sectors, localities, and the support of the international community, Vietnam will succeed in eliminating the drug threat and building a drug-free society, contributing to a prosperous and sustainable future.

At the event, Pham Duc An, chairman of the Quang Ninh Provincial People's Committee, said the province is committed to working closely with ministries, sectors, and localities nationwide to effectively implement programmes and plans for drug prevention and control.

He also emphasised the importance of enhancing public communication campaigns, while promoting the collective strength of the entire political system and society. In particular, he underscored the vital roles of the younger generation, families, schools, and local communities in the fight against drugs.

Gov’t proposes nearly US$1 bln program on drug prevention and control till 2030

VOV.VN - The Vietnamese government has submitted a proposal for a national program on drug prevention and control till 2030, with an estimated budget of VND22.5 trillion (more than US$920 million) to the ongoing session of the National Assembly.