The Indian embassy in Phnom Penh on August 13 hosted a send-off ceremony for 20 Cambodian officials from the National Authority for Combating Drugs (NACD), ahead of their 10-day specialised training programme in India on countering illegal drug trafficking. The training will take place at the National Academy of Customs, Excise, and Narcotics in Palasamudran from August 18 to 29.
The event was attended by Indian Ambassador Vanlalvawna Bawitlung and Secretary of State Ket Sophann, who represented Deputy Prime Minister and NACD Chair Neth Savoeun. The initiative is fully funded under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.
According to an embassy press release, the course will provide a comprehensive understanding of the global and regional dimensions of illegal drug trafficking. It will strengthen participants’ investigative skills in tackling narcotics-related crimes through advanced intelligence techniques, including digital tools and financial investigation methods.
Ambassador Bawitlung stressed that addressing drug abuse and trafficking is key to building safer and healthier societies. He highlighted India’s long-standing commitment to capacity building and noted the ITEC programme’s impact in training Cambodian professionals across various ministries and institutions.
Sophann expressed appreciation to the Indian government for its tailored training programmes, emphasising that such initiatives align with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s strategy to combat illegal drugs at both national and regional levels.
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