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MYANMAR INFORMATION COMMITTEE
YANGON
Information Sheet
N0. C- 2549 ( I/L ) 2nd March, 2003
Together We Can Win the War on Drugs
Another step forward in the international war on drugs is taking place
in Myanmar, where a joint Myanmar-U.S. Opium Yield Survey began on
February 24. The survey, which runs through March 3, will provide vital,
timely information on poppy production, and allow observers to evaluate
ongoing crop substitution programs.
The survey team, comprised of twelve American and seven Myanmar officials,
will collect poppy samples from twelve separate areas in Myanmar, Shan
State.
The team will also visit at least ten areas where a wide variety of crop
substitution programs are underway. These programs, which are designed to
provide alternative sources of income to poppy farmers, include a coffee
plantation in Lwe-sam-son, a wolfram factory in Long-htan, and highland
terrace farms being developed in northern Shan State near Lashio.
Myanmar's commitment to the war against narcotics is absolute. The drop in
opium production in Myanmar, according to U.S. figures, has been dramatic.
From approximately 2000 metric tons in 1997, opium production has been
slashed to just over 600 metric tons in 2002, and the figures are expected
to decline even further.
Moreover, crop substitution programs have been implemented steadily over
the past decade, and the Government has built roads, increased
electricity, and developed markets in order to provide alternate sources
of income for poppy growers.
In addition, the Government has implemented stringent money laundering
laws, prohibited the import of precursor chemicals for synthetic drugs,
trained more officers in anti-narcotics techniques, prosecuted corrupt
officials, and increased our involvement with international anti-narcotics
efforts.
Unfortunately, cooperation with the United States has been limited to
opium surveys, and this cooperation should be increased. Both our
countries have a mutual interest in stopping drug production, and we both
share an obligation to the international community to work together.
Working together is a "win-win" situation.
The Government of Myanmar therefore urges the United States to join us
more fully in the war against narcotics. By working together, we can win
the war on drugs. But if we fail to work together, the drug traffickers
gain the advantage.
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