According to some estimates, the monetary value of drug trafficking may even have surpassed that of international trade in oil, and may be second only to the arms trade. This should ensure close cooperation between these two important UN bodies. We believe in multilateral collaboration and the important role of the UN system. A key factor in combating drug distribution and abuse is obviously the role played by governments. Governments should do their utmost to build good and effective public institutions such as an efficient police force, and should ensure that the rule of law prevails as manifested in a good court system.
Good governance is perhaps our best ally in fighting drug distribution and abuse.
I firmly believe that, apart from international cooperation, open debate, transparency, accountability and participation from civil society are prerequisites for a successful and sustainable fight against drugs. In conclusion, let me confirm that Norway will continue to give high priority to drug-related challenges in our development cooperation and as an integral part of our agenda for human security and comprehensive peace.