The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia hosted an event dedicated to the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The event was attended by senior officials of the Ministry, representatives of various departments, Prosecutor General Giorgi Gvarakidze, and the Head of the Investigation Service of the Ministry of Finance Mikheil Maghlakelidze.

Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia, delivered a speech focused on effective strategies in the fight against drug-related crime. According to Geka Geladze, combating drug addiction and related crimes is a global challenge, and Georgia is no exception.

"The distribution and consumption of narcotic substances pose a threat to national security, public health, and the well-being of every citizen. That is why the fight against drug crime remains one of the key priorities of our Government. This is evidenced by the recent legislative amendments adopted by the Georgian Parliament, which have significantly toughened penalties for drug trafficking. As a result, the effectiveness of drug enforcement units has increased in terms of prevention and interdiction", - said the Minister.

He also highlighted a new legislative package initiated by the Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, which involves prohibiting private entities from conducting substitution therapy programs, restricting the import of psychotropic medications by private companies, and imposing strict controls on psychotropic prescriptions.

"This initiative will play a vital role in the ongoing fight against drug addiction", - added Geka Geladze. He once again underlined that the Ministry, with its full staff, continues to intensively combat the illegal circulation and distribution of drugs and to enforce strict legal measures against those accused of drug offences.