Andina

Peru's President: Development is best strategy to fight drug trafficking

Photo: ANDINA/Presidency of the Republic.

Photo: ANDINA/Presidency of the Republic.

16:27 | Llochegua (Ayacucho region), Oct. 6.

Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra on Tuesday affirmed that development is the best strategy to combat drug trafficking and push back illegal crops in the Valley of Apurimac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM).

According to the Head of State, VRAEM is considered a dangerous area where the presence of Armed Forces should be increased as part of a State strategy to stem the spread of drug trafficking. However, he said, this strategy must be different.

"Drug trafficking must be fought with development. The way to push back illegal crops is using alternative crops. But I wonder what we will get from harvesting good products if there are no roads to take them to Ayacucho, Lima or abroad," the Peruvian leader said as he visited Llochegua in Ayacucho region.

He went on to say that the Government is committed to placing greater emphasis on the roads being built in the area and to meet the needs of the population regarding agriculture, sanitation, and health, in coordination with the regional governor.

"It is not easy to meet your needs all at once. VRAEM is a large area that contains several regions. So, we must work gradually and progressively," he emphasized.

Oxygen plant

As part of his visit to Llochegua, the statesman brought a medical oxygen plant to strengthen the fight against COVID-19.

This has been made possible through the contribution of the community, in cooperation with the regional government and the Ministry of Defense.


(END) FHG/VVS/RMB


Published: 10/6/2020