COP7: Islamabad to be part of anti-tobacco moot in India

Director Tobacco Control Cell to represent Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Despite the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, Islamabad is all set to participate at an international anti-tobacco moot to be held in New Delhi later this year.

The participants of the seventh Conference of Parties (COP7), along with other agendas, are going to devise an International Plan of Action 2017-18 for the implementation of Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) along with its budget. The moot is expected to be held between November 7 and 12.

The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination (NHSRC) has nominated Director Tobacco Control Cell Muhammad Waqas Tarar to represent Pakistan at the mega conference.





Talking to The Express Tribune, an official, closely monitoring the event on the condition of anonymity said, “It is our international obligation to become part of this event and play our role in ensuring workable public health measures against the harmful effects of tobacco.”



Despite bilateral ties with the neighbouring state being on a downward trajectory, Pakistan would actively be part of the event owing to its unconditional commitment to follow the United Nations charter, the official said.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 23^rd, 2016.