As part of its efforts to combat illegal drugs, EUAM Iraq accompanied an Iraqi delegation on a visit Lisbon, to the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre - Narcotics (MAOC (N)), the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and the Portuguese Policia Judiciaria. 

The visit should be seen against the background of Iraq's intention to further develop knowledge about reinforcing international cooperation. The institutions visited all have extensive experience in working with (inter)national partners to address narcotic-related challenges. By sharing good practices and lessons learned, the intention to strengthen cooperation was illustrated.

MAOC - (N) is an initiative of six EU Member States (France, Ireland, Italy, Spain, The Netherlands, and Portugal) and the United Kingdom, co-funded by the Internal Security Fund of the European Union. The Centre provides a forum for multi-lateral cooperation, to tackle illicit drug trafficking by sea and air.

EMCDDA is the European reference point on drugs and drug addiction information, analyzing the drug situation in Europe, focusing on illicit drug use, related harms, and drug supply, providing a comprehensive set of data across these themes and key harm-reduction interventions. 

Portuguese Policia Judiciaria assists judicial authorities in the criminal investigation to fight the most serious, complex, and socially damaging forms of crime, including international drug trafficking.