RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and Iraq have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Riyadh to boost cooperation in combating drug trafficking and smuggling, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.
Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz and Iraqi Minister of Health and Chair of the Supreme Committee for Drug Control Dr. Saleh Mahdi Al-Hasnawi, signed the MoU.
The MoU is focused on combating the illicit trafficking and smuggling of narcotics, psychotropic substances, and chemical precursors.
According to the Iraqi News Agency, the agreement comprises 17 key articles outlining a broad framework for cooperation, including intelligence sharing, technical training, early warning systems, and the development of joint prevention and surveillance strategies.
The agreement also highlights the need for stronger coordination at border crossings, where both countries continue to confront increasing challenges related to cross-border smuggling.
Iraq’s Ministry of Health said the agreement reflects “deepened bilateral ties and institutional integration” between the two countries in addressing one of the region’s most urgent transnational threats.
