U.S. and Mexico Pledge to Cut Drug Demand

The governments of Mexico and the United States have signed an pledge to cut demand for illicit drugs by stepped up treatment and prevention efforts, the El Paso Times reported Feb. 27.

A bilateral declaration states that both countries will provide more and better addiction treatment; expand the use of screening for addictions; implement evidence-based prevention; improve the quality of health care for people with addictions; and promote innovation in criminal justice, such as drug courts.

“The binational meeting and declaration on reducing drug abuse reflect a commitment by the United States and Mexico to intensify ongoing drug-control efforts and a recognition that by focusing on prevention and treatment of substance abuse disorders, we can significantly improve the public health and safety of our peoples,” said Gil Kerlikowske, director of the U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy.