2005 Press Releases

Cornerstone Ceremony for Drug Treatment Center (Feb. 11, 2005)

Ambassador Patricia Haslach and Lao officials at the cornerstone of the treatment center.

Ambassador Haslach traveled to Savannakhet on February 11 to participate in a cornerstone ceremony for the construction of a new drug treatment and rehabilitation center. The center, which will be completed by November 2005, will have 90 beds. It will primarily treat those addicted to amphetamine-type stimulants, a fast-growing problem in Laos. During the first year after opening, the center will treat about 300 addicts. The cost for the center's construction and associated training and equipment will be approximately $500,000.

Thanking the embassy for its support, Minister to the President and Chairman of the Lao National Commission for Drug Control and Supervision Soubanh Srithirath, told the assembled audience that the GOL is determined to fight the ATS problem, which represents a grave threat to Lao youth and society. He pledged more GOL efforts to educate young people about the dangers of ATS. The Ambassador said that construction of the facility is a good step in the right direction. The training component is very important to ensure the best care possible, the Ambassador added.