23 Sep 2023

US calls on Pacific to join coalition

From , 6:03 am on 23 September 2023
Some of the synthetic drug ingredients that were seized in August.

Some of the synthetic drug ingredients that were seized in August. Photo: NZ Police

The United States is urging more Pacific countries and China to join its coalition to address synthetic drug threats.

Lisa A. Johnson is the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs in the Department of State. 

Ms Johnson says synthetic drug threats are a global problem that requires a global solution, urging more Pacific countries and China to join and help combat the growing threat in the region.

RNZ Pacific Editor Koroi Hawkins spoke with Ms Johnson who was in New Zealand this week attending the International Association of Women Police conference.

He began by asking her about the importance of having more women in law enforcement in the Pacific.