Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan was working closely with international organizations to address the challenges posed by illicit drugs.

“Pakistan was a signatory to all global conventions and protocols related to the prevention of drug abuse and illicit trafficking,” the premier said in a message on the occasion of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, being observed today (Sunday), Radio Pakistan reported.

He said the easy availability of synthetic drugs posed dangers to the general public, especially the youth, which make up more than sixty percent of Pakistan’s population.

He said we must work collectively to protect young people from the risks of drug abuse and safeguard their health and wellbeing.

The Prime Minister said preventing drug use before it begins is the most cost-effective, common-sense approach to promote safe and healthy communities.