Washington D.C. – Indian Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, recently spearheaded discussions to evaluate the progress of joint counter-narcotics operations aimed at combating illicit drug trafficking. These discussions took place during the India-US Drug Policy Framework Executive Group meeting on counter-narcotics cooperation.

Ambassador Kwatra was joined by Sara Carter, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy. The Indian Embassy in the U.S. emphasized the importance of the discussions, highlighting the need for effective and focused enforcement through active bilateral coordination to curb illicit drug flows.

In a statement released on X, Ambassador Kwatra remarked on the meeting with Ms. Carter, underscoring that the discussions involved a review of mutual efforts and ongoing cooperation to address the threats of illicit drug trafficking and the diversion of precursor chemicals. The statement further emphasized that effective, focused enforcement through active bilateral coordination is essential to curb illicit flows.

India and the United States have a history of working together to combat drug trafficking. In June 2021, the two countries convened the second meeting of the Counternarcotics Working Group (CNWG), where they engaged in conversations focused on increasing collaboration on counternarcotics regulation and law enforcement. During this meeting, both sides identified areas for joint action and resolved to continue their close cooperation. They also exchanged views on the narcotics-related challenges facing both nations and committed to a bilateral framework of policy engagements and expanded cooperation to reduce the threat of illicit drugs.

Both countries have committed to sharing data, best practices, and lessons learned, including details regarding public health approaches to address substance use disorder and other consequences of drug use. They have also highlighted their commitment to strengthening cooperation in curtailing the illegal production, manufacturing, trafficking, and distribution of pharmaceutical and illicit drugs, as well as the precursor chemicals used to manufacture them.

The ongoing collaboration between the U.S. and India reflects a shared commitment to tackling the global drug problem. By focusing on active bilateral coordination and effective enforcement, both nations aim to disrupt the flow of illicit drugs and protect their citizens from the harmful consequences of drug trafficking and substance abuse.