ISLAMABAD: On the eve of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking, stressing that protecting the country’s youth from the menace of narcotics remains a national priority.

In his message on the occasion, President Zardari said Pakistan stood with the international community in renewing its collective resolve to address the grave social challenge posed by drug abuse and trafficking.

Referring to this year’s theme, World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses, the president said it highlighted the evolving and complex nature of the global drug problem and underscored the need for coordinated and innovative action.

He said Pakistan remained steadfast in addressing all threats associated with narcotic drugs, including the emergence of new substances, expanding illicit trafficking networks, and the growing accessibility of drugs, particularly among young people.

On eve of International Day Against Drug Abuse, PM calls for united action to build drug-free generation

Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz urged a comprehensive national response to combat the growing threat of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, stressing the need for prevention, awareness, rehabilitation and collective action to protect the youth from narcotics-related challenges.

Alongside traditional narcotics, a new range of highly dangerous synthetic and illicit drugs had emerged in recent years. He warned that criminal networks were increasingly exploiting modern communication technologies and digital platforms to expand their operations, connect buyers and sellers, and evade law enforcement agencies.

The prime minister also expressed concern over the growing use of cryptocurrencies and other digital payment channels to finance illicit drug activities beyond conventional financial systems.

Highlighting the influence of social media and mobile applications, he said harmful substances were often portrayed as fashionable, harmless or linked with success and social acceptance. Such narratives, he added, were deliberately designed to target young people during a critical stage of their personal and social development.

The prime minister observed that the consequences of drug abuse extended far beyond individuals, affecting families, communities and society at large.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026