January 15, 2014

Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control Hearing on Future of U.S. Counternarcotics Efforts in Afghanistan

The hearing examined how the United States can sustain and improve counternarcotics efforts in Afghanistan as its military presence declines in 2014. The illegal drug trade is a contributing factor to many of the major challenges facing Afghanistan. Drug trafficking funds the Taliban, increases corruption and poses a serious public health challenge.

Opening Statements

CHAIRMAN (D - CA)

Dianne Feinstein

Sen. Feinstein’s opening statement, as prepared for delivery.

CO-CHAIR (R - IA)

Chuck Grassley

Sen. Grassely’s opening statement, as prepared for delivery.

Witnesses

Ambassador William R. Brownfield

Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement

James L. Capra

Chief of Operations, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

Erin M. Logan

Principal Director for Counternarcotics and Global Threats, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy

John F. Sopko

Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR)