Georgian PM meets former Polish President to discuss drug policy challenges

Regional cooperation on drug policy and existing challenges were discussed on Wednesday in a meeting between Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Aleksander Kwaśniewski, former Polish President and Chair of the Eurasian Commission on Drug Policy.

The meeting highlighted the need for coordinated action to combat illicit drug trafficking and organised crime, including information sharing among partner countries and close cooperation with international organisations.

The officials also emphasised Georgia’s balanced approach to drug policy, which encompasses prevention, rehabilitation, harm reduction and supply reduction.

Particular attention was paid to the state’s commitment to healthcare and rehabilitation, notably through its state-funded opioid substitution therapy programme, which currently serves approximately 14,000 people.

The sides also discussed progress in combating drug-related crime.

According to the information shared at the meeting, criminal proceedings were initiated against 7,438 individuals on drug-related charges in 2026, while 1,409 people involved in various aspects of the illicit drug trade were arrested.

The meeting underscored the importance of international cooperation, data exchange and effective control measures in combating illicit drug trafficking and protecting public health.