SECRETARY-GENERAL ATTENDS LAUNCHING IN ROME OF CAMPAIGN AGAINST DRUGS
Press Release
SG/SM/5863
SECRETARY-GENERAL ATTENDS LAUNCHING IN ROME OF CAMPAIGN AGAINST DRUGS
19960109 Following is the text of the statement, translated from the French, made by Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali at the launching in Rome on 8 January of the joint project between the United Nations International Drug Control Programme (UNDCP) and the Italian television network, RAI, on the world drug problem:It gives me great pleasure to take advantage of my stay in Rome to attend the launching of this cooperation project between the Italian television network, RAI, and the United Nations International Drug Control Programme.
We all know that the scourge of drugs has now taken on an international dimension, and that it needs to be tackled as a matter of the utmost urgency.
In this global society in which we are destined to live, a global response is required to combat such threats.
In February 1990, the United Nations General Assembly held its first special session devoted to drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, at which Member States clearly stressed that the fight against drugs could not be waged by individual States alone, or even at the regional level, but must be global in scope.
A number of United Nations bodies have long been combating drugs, drug trafficking and drug abuse.
In this regard, the United Nations International Drug Control Programme plays a leading role. It investigates drug trafficking, ensures that treaties concerning narcotic drugs are observed, and implements programmes for the eradication of illicit crops. It also helps to inform the public of the dangers of narcotic drug use.
The joint project between RAI and UNDCP has been organized as part of this mobilization campaign.
In my view, it is a model cooperation agreement, and I warmly congratulate RAI, especially Ms. Moratti, for this exceptional initiative.
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For my part, I wish to assure you that I intend to do my utmost to guarantee the success of this undertaking so that it may serve as an example in other areas where the mobilization of public opinion is crucial.
In many respects, the mass media have become key players on the international scene. Without them, many United Nations activities would be meaningless and ineffective.
I therefore sincerely thank all those who have contributed to this project, which, I believe, carries the seeds of hope for the future.
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