“This global challenge is interconnected with corruption, terrorism and illicit flows of money,” Mr. Ban told UN official and delegates at a meeting ahead of a UN General Assembly special session (UNGASS) on the world drug problem in April.

“Those who traffic in illegal drugs may also be involved in human trafficking, kidnapping, firearms smuggling, murder and numerous other crimes. But the world drug problem is also a health problem, linked to overdoses, the ravages of addiction and the spread of HIV and hepatitis,” he added.

The UN chief insisted that implementing theSustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which were adopted last year by UN Member States to wipe out poverty and fight inequality over the next 15 years, will require “collective partnership and solid commitment.”

“UNGASS 2016 provides an opportunity for the international community to enter into an informed and wide-ranging discussion on drug policy in all its aspects,” Mr. Ban explained. “It can help in the development of objectives, based on human rights and concern for the health and welfare of people, that will support the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”

Available at: http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=53201#.Vr2EnLR97Gg