The United States recently hosted the first-ever meeting of the US India Drug Policy Executive Working Group in Washington, marking a significant step forward in bilateral cooperation against the global drug problem. The meeting reflected the shared resolve of both nations to tackle drug trafficking, prevent the misuse of precursor chemicals, and promote safer communities. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the discussions highlighted the long-term commitment of both governments to address drug-related threats that increasingly cross international borders.
The two-day meeting, held from January 20 to January 21, was formally opened by Sara Carter, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy in the United States. She underlined that combating the drug crisis has become a central national security priority. Carter also stressed that the partnership between the two countries aims not only to protect families and communities, but also to safeguard legitimate industries that can be impacted by illegal drug networks. The meeting reinforced the shared political will of leaders in both nations to strengthen security collaboration and eliminate narco-terrorism.
India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, reiterated that India places top importance on countering narcotics trafficking and stopping the diversion of precursor chemicals used in the illegal drug trade. He noted that India is focused on maintaining a careful balance between strong enforcement measures and the smooth flow of legitimate trade, particularly within regulated pharmaceutical supply chains.
The working group was jointly led by senior officials from both countries, including representatives from the US Office of National Drug Control Policy and India’s Narcotics Control Bureau. The delegations emphasized the need for practical and measurable outcomes, with a clear focus on disrupting criminal networks involved in the production and distribution of illicit drugs. Both sides expressed confidence that closer coordination would deliver real results on the ground.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India and the United States agreed on the importance of a whole-of-government approach. This includes better coordination across agencies, stronger oversight of pharmaceutical supply chains, and building on recent joint operations that have successfully targeted drug trafficking routes. As organized crime and terrorism continue to exploit cross-border drug networks, counter-narcotics cooperation is emerging as a vital pillar of the broader US India security partnership.
