Vienna: Hossein Zolfaqari, the secretary-general of the Iranian Drug Control Headquarters, has asserted that Iran's efforts to combat drug trafficking are genuine and not politically motivated, unlike how Western countries often portray them. Zolfaqari made these statements during a meeting with Peter Potman, the Permanent Ambassador of the Netherlands to Vienna. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 68th annual session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, held in Vienna, Austria, from March 10 to 14.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Zolfaqari expressed his concern that Western nations tend to politicize all issues, while Iran remains committed to its sincere efforts in fighting drug trafficking. He emphasized that the narratives portraying the Islamic Republic's actions as insincere are misleading and unfounded.

During the discussion, Zolfaqari also addressed the critical issue of Afghanistan's underground production of heroin and methamphetamine, labeling it a severe threat that requires immediate global intervention.

In his response, Ambassador Potman acknowledged Iran's efforts, particularly in hosting millions of Afghan nationals. He also shared insights into the Netherlands' successful initiatives in reducing harm related to heroin addiction, indicating a willingness for continued collaboration on the issue.