Hon. (Dr.) Rizvie Salih - Deputy Speaker and Chair of Committees

## Summary Deputy Speaker Dr. Rizvie Salih spoke in support of the Poisons, Opium and Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill and the related Judicature (Amendment) Bill, which seek to close legal gaps in prosecuting high seas drug trafficking, particularly involving foreign nationals intercepted beyond Sri Lanka's territorial waters. He argued that the amendments align domestic law with international conventions and empower the High Court with forum jurisdiction to hear such cases. Drawing on his prior medical career, he framed drug trafficking as both a national security and public health crisis, calling for a dual approach of firm enforcement against traffickers alongside expanded prevention, education, and rehabilitation for victims. He also highlighted the international dimension, noting the amendments would strengthen Sri Lanka's credibility as a cooperative maritime security partner and responsible coastal state.