老挝加强打击毒品犯罪

Core Points - Laos is intensifying its anti-drug efforts as it marks the 24th National Anti-Drug Day, with a focus on implementing the "National Anti-Drug Problem Resolution Plan by 2025" [1] - The government has extended its national agenda for strengthening anti-drug actions from 2021 to 2025 to combat the rising drug crime situation [1] - In 2024, the Ministry of Public Security handled 7,350 criminal cases, including 3,771 drug-related cases, highlighting the scale of the drug issue [1] Group 1 - Laos is facing a severe drug crime situation, with drug issues spreading from urban to rural areas, becoming a root cause of various social problems and criminal activities [1] - The government is enhancing public awareness of drug hazards and promoting anti-drug laws, while also creating drug-free institutions and schools [1] - Increased investment is being made to create job opportunities for rural communities and to guide farmers in alternative crop cultivation to replace opium and cannabis [1] Group 2 - Laos is actively participating in regional and international anti-drug cooperation to address long-standing drug smuggling issues in border areas [2] - The "Safe Waterway" joint drug enforcement initiative, initiated by China in 2013, has become a significant platform for anti-drug law enforcement cooperation among six countries, including Laos [2] - A high-level meeting on drug cooperation among the six countries was held in June 2024, where experiences in combating drug trafficking were shared [2] Group 3 - In June 2025, Laos signed a memorandum of understanding with Thailand to enhance border security and jointly combat drug trafficking [3] - Laos has also signed law enforcement cooperation documents with Cambodia and Myanmar to deepen collaboration in combating cross-border drug smuggling and other crimes [3] - The government aims to strengthen ties with neighboring countries like China and Thailand to increase joint border patrols and enhance law enforcement cooperation [3]