Director of the Centre, Mr. Makhmud Tolibovich Khamidov, held a working meeting with a delegation of the Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Almaty led by Consul General Ms. Sona Ahmadi at CARICC premises in Almaty on 3 October 2025.

During the meeting CARICC Director presented information on the Centre's mandate, objectives and main areas of activity, and outlined current initiatives and development plans aimed at enhancing effectiveness of practical work in the field of countering drug trafficking.

Particular attention was paid to expanding cooperation between CARICC and competent authorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Suggestions were made to intensify cooperation, including exchange of operational and analytical information, joint events, and participation in educational and research projects.

Then, CARICC staff members delivered a detailed presentation on the Centre's activities to the distinguished delegation.

Ms. Sona Ahmadi, Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Iran, remarked that drug problem is among the key threats to global security. Illicit drug trafficking contributes to instability and is a source of funding for terrorist and extremist groups, particularly in Western and Central Asia.

She also underlined Iran's commitment to a balanced approach to combating the drug threat, addressing not only law enforcement measures but also treatment, rehabilitation, and drug abuse prevention.

In addition, Ms. Sona Ahmadi expressed willingness to further develop partnership with CARICC, including through sharing practical experience, information, and scientific research in this field.

Following the talks parties agreed to step up joint efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and reiterated their mutual interest in strengthening working contacts and coordinating efforts to combat transnational drug crime.

The working meeting was held in a positive, constructive, and substantive dialogue, and it was agreed that both sides would aspire to further develop cooperation between CARICC and the Islamic Republic of Iran.