A meeting to formulate such a program, chaired by President Maithripala Sirisena was held at the Presidential Secretariat Thursday(12) to formulate such a program.

The President indicating that the program that was conducted by the previous government was not effective, said that the present government will make a dedicated commitment and follow a new system to eradicate narcotics and to implement new laws.

He emphasised on the need to enlighten the people on the damages due to the use of narcotics and reiterated that programs should be implemented in national and divisional level with the participation of all groups. He expressed willingness in participating such programs. Special attention was focused on heroin use and smuggling of massive amounts of heroin in to the country.

The President said his government will take all possible measures to prevent the use of heroin. Accordingly, a special programme will be implemented in ports and airports to prevent smuggling narcotics including heroin to the country.

Proposals will be initiated speedily with the cabinet approval and special discussions will be held every two weeks on the narcotic eradication program, he said. Another meeting will be held under the patronage of the President once a month to review the progress of this program.

Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero, Venerable Omlape Sobitha Thero, Venerable Athuraliye Rathana Thero, Minister of Justice Wijedasa Rajapaksha, President's Secretary P.B. Abeykoon, Defense Secretary B.M.U.D. Basnayake, Commanders of tri forces and IGP were present at this occasion.