During a speech at the UN General Assembly, US President Joe Biden highlighted the urgent need for international cooperation to tackle the growing menace of synthetic drugs, particularly opioids. Biden emphasized the severity of the opioid crisis, labeling it as the deadliest drug threat in history.
Biden acknowledged the long-standing issue of insufficient action taken to combat this threat both domestically and globally. He underscored the importance of collective efforts in addressing the opioid epidemic, urging countries to join forces in preventing opioid-related deaths.
Despite criticism from former President Donald Trump regarding border security and opioid trafficking, Biden showcased achievements made under his administration in combating the opioid crisis. Notable accomplishments include making Naloxone, an anti-overdose drug, available over the counter and allocating $80 billion in federal funding towards addiction treatment and support.
Furthermore, Biden highlighted a national security memorandum signed in July, which identified the influx of fentanyl into the US as a significant national security concern. The President also mentioned collaborative initiatives with Mexico, Canada, and China to tackle the importation and production of synthetic drugs.
Looking ahead, Biden emphasized the importance of sustained efforts in combating synthetic drug threats, stressing the need to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the crisis. He urged continued commitment to disrupting synthetic drug supply chains, enhancing public awareness campaigns, and expanding treatment options through public health interventions and addiction recovery programs.
Participants in the coalition pledged to intensify actions aimed at disrupting synthetic drug networks, enhancing public education initiatives, and broadening access to treatment and recovery services.
