Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
Ministry of Counter Narcotics
Office of the Spokesperson
Press Release

Augest 26th,  2008

The Joint Ministry of Counter Narcotics and UNODC Annual Opium Survey Report indicate a 19% reduction in cultivation level this year (153,000 ha), compared to last year’s 193,000 ha. Meanwhile, poppy free provinces have been increased from 13 to 18 provinces.

“This is a remarkable achievement, which is achieved as a result of extensive efforts by the Government supported by international community.” said General Khodaidad, Minister of Counter Narcotics of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan at a joint press conference with Antonio Maria Costa Executive Director of the UNODC.

He further added that it shows that where there is good governance, rule of law and security, the government's National Drugs Control Strategy is working. The gains we have made are threatened by high food prices and severe drought affecting 26 provinces.

So, the government, supported by the international community, must act swiftly to help those experiencing hardship and sustain this achievement over the coming years. General Khodaidad praised the role of Ulema, community elders; local administration and parliament members during the pre-planting campaign, without their strong support the Government would not have been able to achieve success in reduction of poppy cultivation year.

He added that this year the pre-planting campaign and other measures will be continued in all affected provinces in an attempt to maintain the poppy free status and further reduce poppy cultivation in the coming years.

In the current year of 2008 more than 77 police officer lost their valuable life’s including on Ground verification surveyor and more than 100 more police officers were injured in combating Counter Narcotics Efforts. , the Minister of counter Narcotics praised their services and said that there sacrifice who bring honor and prestige to our country which is removing the drug problem for Afghanistan will always be remembered.

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