CARICC delegation participated in international anti-drug forum in Samarkand

An international forum dedicated to combating transnational drug threats and protecting public safety and health was held in Samarkand on 20 April 2026. 

CARICC delegation led by Director actively participated in the forum as co-organizers of the event.

It brought together representatives from more than 20 international organizations, including the United Nations, the European Union, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and the World Health Organization, along with law enforcement officials from some 50 countries and around 500 international experts.

Ms. Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Uzbekistan, addressed the opening ceremony on behalf of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. In his remarks, the Head of State underscored that it's crucial to consolidate international efforts in light of rapid expansion of transnational crime, including through digital technologies, covert financial instruments, and cross-border schemes.

The statement outlined initiatives aimed at effectively addressing identified challenges.

Mr. Bo Mathiesen, Acting Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, also spoke at plenary session, noting relevance of the forum and highlighting CARICC's important role in regional drug control architecture.

SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev drew attention to the importance of expanding cooperation and announced the signing in March this year of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the SCO Secretariat and CARICC, which lays a solid foundation for further institutional partnership.

During thematic sessions the Centre displayed a proactive position. In particular, during the fifth session “International Cooperation” the Centre initiated a discussion on setting up inter-agency mobile anti-drug task forces at the regional level, drawing on the experience of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This initiative aims to enhance quick response capabilities and strengthen practical cooperation among competent authorities of countries in the region.

In addition, CARICC representatives took part in a thematic exhibition showcasing state-of-the-art technical equipment developed in Uzbekistan, including solutions for identification of narcotic substances.

Main part of the forum concluded with an awards ceremony honoring heads of international organizations, including CARICC, with the “For Dedicated Service in Combating Drugs” badge, newly introduced in the Republic of Uzbekistan. 

The forum wrapped up with the adoption of Samarkand Declaration, reflecting common position among participants on key topics in countering drug threats. The document specifically highlights unique role of CARICC as an effective platform for information exchange and coordination of joint operations.

An official reception was held for forum participants on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan following the event.

Participation in this forum reinforced CARICC's status as a leading regional mechanism for coordinating international cooperation in tackling illicit drug trafficking. The Centre will continue to work actively to develop practical tools for cooperation, adopt modern technologies, and bolster partnerships in order to ensure security and stability in the region.