Speech

AMBASSADOR'S REMARKS DEDICATION OF THE SOMSAGNA DRUG TREATMENT CENTER WOMEN'S REHABILITATION FACILITY

VIENTIANE, FEBRUARY 8, 2008, 10:00 AM

I am both honored and pleased to participate in today's ceremony. The U.S. Embassy has long supported the efforts of the government of the Lao P.D.R. to address the problems of illegal drugs. The U.S. Embassy is pleased to have been able to assist in the renovation of the buildings that will be used by the women who are receiving treatment for drug addiction at this center.

Addiction to illicit drugs is a serious health problem that threatens the future well-being of people in Laos, in the United States, and throughout the world. Many of the women who are receiving care and treatment in this facility are battling the destructive effects of one of the most dangerous addictive drugs -- methamphetamine or yaa baa.

Addiction to Methamphetamine has spread quickly in the United States and SouthEast Asia. Addiction to yaa baa occurs not just in major cities, but also in many small towns and even rural areas that in the past had largely been unaffected by narcotic drugs, such as Cocaine or Heroin.

The consequences of yaa baa addiction have been devastating, not only for the addicts and their families, but also for neighbors, classmates, and entire communities. No one knows the dangers of yaa baa better than those of you who are here now at the center. Those of you who are receiving treatment are the fortunate ones. You have the chance to resume and rebuild your lives. You have the chance to work towards a brighter future for yourself and your families.

The purpose of renovating this facility was not simply to improve living conditions. The real purpose is to help you -- the patients -- be better prepared to regain the control of your own lives that yaa baa took away from you.  As you know, this women's rehabilitation center will allow you to return to your homes and communities with skills you will need for success: to acquire new job skills; and, to gain self-confidence. You will leave here prepared to resist the negative influences and factors that led to addiction or drug abuse. But, in the end, your future will be up to you.

To the patients here, their families, and the staff of Somsanga, I wish you success in your shared efforts to build a better future for yourselves, your families, your communities, and the Lao P.D.R.

Thank you.