Japan's commitment to supporting Afghanistan in its battle against persistent drug issues took a step forward as Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko pledged a JPY 1.5bn ($9.3mn) grant to aid in anti-narcotics efforts.
In a meeting with Ghada Waly, the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Kamikawa announced Japan's intention to allocate the grant through UNODC.
This initiative comes amidst ongoing challenges despite the Taliban interim government's ban on poppy cultivation in 2022, a crucial step in heroin production. However, some regions continue to cultivate poppies, exacerbating health and societal issues linked to drug abuse.
The grant aims to address these challenges comprehensively. Part of the funds will be used to establish facilities that facilitate the transition from poppy farming to alternative crops, thereby creating new income opportunities for local communities. Additionally, resources will be allocated to refurbish rehabilitation centers catering to individuals grappling with drug addiction.
In her remarks, Kamikawa stressed Japan's commitment to fostering peace and stability not only in Afghanistan but also across the broader region. She emphasized the collaborative role of UNODC in achieving these goals, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in addressing the drug crisis.
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