ECO-European Commission Cooperation on the Second Phase of Drug Control Project in the ECO Countries 

Press Release

            ECO Secretary General, H.E. Ambassador Seyed Mojtaba Arastou wrote a letter of thanks to H.E. Mr. Chris Patten, Commissioner, European Commission for earmarking the fund for the 2^nd phase of the ECO-UNDCP Project 'Strengthening Drug Control Coordination Unit in the ECO Secretariat'. The second phase of the project will cover a period of two years and will end in July 2004, with the financial assistance of European Commission.               

            In his letter, ECO Secretary General lauded the contribution made by the European Union for the first phase of the project and their continuing interest in drug control issues in ECO region, which are so close to the heart of the governments of this region.

            The Secretary General assured the European Union that he will work with all within its power to make Drug Coordination Unit a success. He further stated that with the change in dispensation in Afghanistan, the contribution from European Union reflects its priority, it gives to curb the menace of illicit trade in drugs in the region.

            Trafficking in drug has been a constant source of concern for the ECO Countries. In addition to their own national endeavors to counter the scourge, ECO Member States signed an MOU with UNDCP, during ECO Summit in Islamabad on 15 March 1995, in order to adopt a joint strategy. Accordingly, the project to establish “Drug Control Coordination Unit” at the ECO Secretariat was concluded on March 5, 1998. It became operational on July 25, 1999. The second phase of the project will cover a period of two years and will end in July 2004, with the financial assistance of European Commission.

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