Heads of delegates for the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in a group photo. Source: borneobulletin.brunei-online.com.bn

(VOVworld)- ASEAN ministers met Tuesday in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, to tackle the issue of illegal drugs in an effort to move towards a drug-free regional bloc by 2015. At the meeting, ministers discussed drug-related issues, cooperation and collaboration between ASEAN members to achieve a common vision. The meeting prepared the final stage of evaluation to establish a drug free ASEAN starting next year. On Monday, at the ASEAN Ministerial Preparatory Meeting for the 22nd ASEAN Summit (Prep-SOM), senior officials had a comprehensive discussion on the regional drug situation in ASEAN, the achievements and challenges towards achieving the vision of a Drug-Free ASEAN 2015. The meeting acknowledged that ASEAN need to strengthen cooperation in legal framework, training and human resources and partnership with the private sector including chemical industry and pharmaceutical. The meeting also exchanged ideas on ASEAN Action plan against illegal drug production, trade and use for the 2009-2015 period.