Russia, Tajikistan confirm joint efforts against drug trafficking.

DUSHANBE, July 1 (Itar-Tass) - Russia and Tajikistan are unanimous in
their opinion that only joint efforts can help in the fight against drug
trafficking, the head of the federal drug control service, Viktor Ivanov,
said after his meeting with Tajik President Emomali Rakhmon on Thursday.
"Our cooperation in this direction is exemplary as we conduct many
joint drills," he said.
"I know that Tajikistan's government injects heavy funds into
strengthening the border with Afghanistan. The UN provides support and
Russian specialists share their experience with their Tajik counterparts.
Assistance to Tajikistan in the fight against drug trafficking is in the
interests of Russia," he said.
Ivanov did not rule out that Russian border guards may return to
Tajikistan, but this issue is not high on the agenda.
"This issue can be resolved if the two parties express their will," he
said.
Ivanov arrived in Tajikistan to take part in the meeting of the CSTO
coordination council of heads of counter-drug agencies that will take
place on Friday.
Taking part in the meeting will be officials of counter-drug agencies
from Tajikistan, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Belarus and
Uzbekistan.
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