Health Minister Michael Hadjipantela commended the support Pompidou Group has provided in the formulation of evidence-based and effective drug policies during the 18th Council of Europe Ministerial Conference on “Human rights at the heart of drug and addictions policies”, held on 13-14 December in Lisbon.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Health, Hadjipantela said in his speech that the Council of Europe’s Pompidou Group provides great support to all its members in broadening policies to include addictive behaviour related to the use of illicit and licit substances such as alcohol and tobacco, as well as new forms of addictions, such as online gambling and gaming.
He also stressed that the aim is to assist Member States in fulfilling their obligations under the Council of Europe and United Nations Conventions when implementing their drug policies.
It is noted that the Conference was held in view of the end of the Portuguese Presidency, offering countries the opportunity to exchange views on recent policy developments and challenges in the field of addictions.
It is also added that during the Conference, Pompidou Group representatives adopted its new Work Programme for the period 2023-2025, while the Ministers of Health adopted the Lisbon Declaration, which will constitute a collective commitment for the purpose of establishing a common policy.
Source: Cyprus News Agency