Mr. Chair, Ladies and Gentlemen,

For a long time, the international community has worked hand in hand to advance global governance on drug-related issues. China fully recognizes the efforts made by CND, UNODC, INCB and other institutions in addressing drug-related threats and safeguarding public health and well-being. We appreciate the CND and other international organizations for their efforts in promoting the implementation of the three international drug control conventions and in achieving their purposes and objectives.

In 2024, China continued to improve its drug control system with Chinese characteristics, strengthened law enforcement efforts, innovated and refined the management of and services for drug users, and extensively promoted drug prevention awareness and education. We achieved new progress by reinforcing the substance scheduling mechanism and deepening international cooperation in drug control.

In 2024, China solved 37,000 drug-related criminal cases, a year-on-year decrease of 12.9%, and seized 26.7 tons of drugs, a 3% increase compared to the previous year. The number of registered drug users stood at 747,000, reflecting a 16.7% decline year-on-year.

China published three separate announcements, scheduling 3 additional psychotropic substances, including Dextromethorphan (DXM)， 46 new psychoactive substances, 7 precursor chemicals, and 15 veterinary drugs, including xylazine. As of now, China has placed 510 narcotic and psychotropic substances under control and has scheduled the whole class of fentanyl-related substances and synthetic cannabinoids.

China has also fulfilled its commitment by increasing contributions to UNODC, with a focus on supporting the MOU Mechanism on Drug Control in the Greater Mekong Subregion. Under this framework, China has played a key role in establishing three working groups on prevention education, chemical control, and drug analysis, while also carrying out related activities. Additionally, China has leveraged its expertise and experience to enhance regional capacity-building efforts.

At present, the global drug problem continues to spread, with escalating drug-related harms. In particular, synthetic drugs pose new challenges, making drug control efforts even more complex and challenging. China advocates for the international community to uphold true multilateralism, adhere to the principles of shared responsibility, solidarity, and cooperation, and firmly support the three international drug control conventions to safeguard the international drug control system. China supports CND’s work, diligently fulfils its treaty obligations and commitments, opposes drug legalization, and joins the efforts to address drug-related challenges in support of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). China is committed to a comprehensive and systematic approach to drug control, balancing demand and supply reduction measures. This includes strengthening prevention education, drug treatment and rehabilitation, law enforcement, substance scheduling, and international cooperation to curb drug supply at its source and reduce drug-related harm. China also upholds the principles of openness, inclusiveness, joint contribution and shared benefits. In the spirit of cooperation and mutual trust, China fully respects the unique circumstances and levels of development in different countries, promotes the exchange of experiences and best practices, and enhances coordination to advance joint efforts in global drug governance. Together, we strive to build a community with a shared future that is free from drug-related harm.

Mr. Chair, Ladies and Gentlemen,

China is willing to work together with all countries to advance global drug governance, promote security and stability around the world, and safeguard the health and well-being of humanity.

Thank you!