The Colombian President’s Bold Comments on Cocaine

During a recent live broadcast of a government meeting, Colombian President Gustavo Petro made some eye-opening remarks about cocaine.

He stated that the drug is “no worse than whisky” and suggested that its illegal status is more about its origin in Latin America than any inherent danger it poses compared to other substances.

Colombia’s Role in the Global Drug Trade

Colombia is the world’s largest producer and exporter of cocaine, with the majority of it heading to the United States and Europe.

The country has long battled the challenges of drug trafficking, which has had profound effects on its society and politics.

In a rare, six-hour live-streamed meeting with government ministers, President Petro shared his thoughts on the issue.

According to him, the reason cocaine is illegal isn’t because it’s more harmful than other substances like whisky; it’s simply due to where it’s produced.

He pointed to scientific studies to back his claim, adding that “cocaine is no worse than whisky.”

The Case for Legalizing Cocaine

Petro went on to suggest that if cocaine were legalized worldwide, the entire drug trade could be easily dismantled.

He emphasized that legalizing the substance would allow it to be sold in a regulated manner, much like wine.

By doing so, the massive and violent drug trafficking industry could be brought to an end, ultimately fostering peace.

“If you want peace, you have to dismantle the business of drug trafficking,” Petro said, further explaining that the global cocaine trade could be “easily dismantled” if the drug were legalized.

Addressing the Fentanyl Crisis

President Petro also took the opportunity to highlight the fentanyl crisis in the United States. Fentanyl, an opioid responsible for tens of thousands of deaths in the U.S. annually, is not produced in Colombia, Petro pointed out.

He explained that fentanyl was originally developed by North American pharmaceutical companies, and its addictive nature has led to widespread abuse.

“The people who consume it have become addicted,” Petro added, stressing the importance of addressing this issue at its root.

A New Approach to Peace

Since taking office in 2022, Petro has worked towards ending Colombia’s long-standing internal conflicts, many of which are linked to the drug trade.

His administration is attempting to make peace with armed groups that rely on trafficking for funding, hoping to bring an end to over 60 years of violence.

Cocaine Production Soars

Recent reports have shown that cocaine production in Colombia reached an all-time high in 2023, jumping by 53% to a record 2,600 tons.

This surge in production, according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, underscores the continuing challenges Colombia faces in its fight against drug trafficking.

Is Cocaine Really Worse Than Whisky?

This raises the question: Is cocaine truly worse than whisky? President Petro’s comments suggest a more complex perspective on the issue, challenging conventional views on both substances.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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