Participation in a side event organized by the Russian Federation

On 9 March 2026 CARICC delegation took part in a side event in Vienna entitled “Regional Efforts in Countering Illicit Drug-Related Activities: Best Practices of CSTO, SCO and CIS” organized by the Russian Federation during the 69th Session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs.

It served as a platform for discussing practical experience in regional cooperation to combat illicit drug trafficking and strengthen cooperation between international and regional organizations.

Main part of the side event featured presentations by representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Belarus, the National Security Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and competent authorities of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of Tajikistan. During their presentations participants provided information on measures being implemented to combat transnational drug crime, joint operations and information exchange mechanisms.

CARICC Director spoke during discussions and emphasized the importance of further strengthening regional cooperation and coordination of efforts in countering drug threat. He pointed out that the CARICC has a well-established legal framework for cooperation with regional organizations such as the Collective Security Treaty Organization, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. These mechanisms for interaction provide a solid foundation for further strengthening joint efforts by countries in the region to tackle modern drug threats.

It was added that events like this at the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs help build partnerships between countries and international organizations, share best practices, and develop coordinated approaches to combat illicit drug trafficking.