Senator Chuck Schumer has pledged to closely monitor China’s adherence to a recent agreement aimed at curbing the flow of fentanyl into the United States. This commitment follows an agreement in which Chinese President Xi Jinping vowed to halt the supply of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, which predominantly originates from chemicals produced by Chinese companies. Schumer stressed the critical nature of this agreement, given the significant role China plays in the global fentanyl supply.
While acknowledging the significance of China’s pledge, Schumer expressed caution, citing past instances where China’s commitments did not translate into concrete actions. “It’s rare to get China to make commitments like this, but we cannot let it stop at words. We have to see results. In the past, China has made commitments and not lived up to them,” Schumer remarked. His skepticism reflects concerns about China’s track record in adhering to international agreements, particularly in the realm of drug control.
Further bolstering this commitment, China has agreed to resume counter-narcotic operations in collaboration with U.S. officials. This move signifies a potential step forward in the bilateral efforts to combat the rampant issue of fentanyl trafficking, which has contributed to a substantial rise in drug overdose deaths in the U.S. Schumer’s vigilance underscores the urgency and importance of effective international cooperation in addressing this public health crisis.
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