Canada Announces Regional Support to Combat Illicit Drug Trafficking in Washington, D.C.

July 2, 2012 - The Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas and Consular Affairs), today announced further support to the global effort to combat illicit drug trafficking. Canada is providing an additional $1.5 million in funding to combat transnational organized crime related to illicit drug trafficking in the Americas. This project, implemented by Interpol, will enhance the capacity of local and regional law enforcement agencies to respond to threats posed by international criminal activities.

“Implementing a regional approach to counter the rampant drug trade and related crime in the Americas is critical to strengthening local and international security,” said Minister of State Ablonczy. “We must continue to build the capacity of law enforcement agencies to stay one step ahead of these sophisticated criminal networks.”

The Regional Intelligence Gathering and Criminal Analysis project announced today provides specialized regional training for law enforcement officers in Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean to effectively gather and analyze criminal intelligence and data as they relate to illicit narcotics. Sharing real-time information among countries is an essential element in the successful investigation and prosecution of crimes.

“Through implementing objectives we share with trusted partners, we can mitigate the criminal activity and violence associated with illicit drug trafficking,” said Minister of State Ablonczy. “Working to accomplish these common goals allows countries throughout the hemisphere to improve safety for their citizens and visitors.”

The contribution is funded by Canada’s Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program (ACCBP). The ACCBP supports efforts by countries in the Americas to prevent and respond to threats posed by transnational organized crime.

Minister of State Ablonczy made this announcement in Washington, D.C., where she is meeting with officials from partner organizations to discuss issues related to Canada’s engagement in the Americas and consular matters.

For more information, please visit Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

John Babcock
Senior Communications Adviser
Office of the Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas and Consular Affairs)
613-944-1291

Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
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