A seminar on countering trafficking in drugs, in particular Lyrica (pregabalin), was held in Kuwait City, Kuwait, from 5 to 7 February 2024.

The event was organized by the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, the Gulf Gulf Cooperation Council Criminal Information Center to Combat Drugs (GCC CIC) and the General Directorate of Drug Control of the Ministry of Interior of the State of Kuwait.

Delegations from Oman, the State of Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, the State of Kuwait, Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, as well as experts from GCC CIC, US DEA, INCB and CARICC participated in the workshop.

The event aimed at developing an effective strategy for the Gulf countries to combat drug trafficking and prevent the abuse of narcotic drugs, as well as sharing successful regional and international experiences in preventing substance abuse, including Lyrica (pregabalin).

Participants exchanged information on drug situation in their respective countries and discussed measures to enhance cooperation in addressing distribution of new psychoactive substances.

CARICC representative made a presentation on current development of drug situation in Central Asia, informed about ongoing measures on organization and implementation of joint counternarcotics operations, provided information on analytical products of the Centre, and made suggestions on enhancing collaboration between Central Asian and Gulf countries.