Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Members of Congress on Illicit Fentanyl

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Secretary Antony J. Blinken met today with bipartisan members of the House of Representatives and Senate to discuss mutual efforts to counter fentanyl trafficking worldwide.  The Secretary and Members addressed the threat that Illicitly manufactured fentanyl and other synthetic drugs pose to national security, global health, and public safety, and the devastating impact on U.S. communities. The Secretary underscored the State Department’s commitment to countering the illicit manufacture and trafficking of fentanyl. He discussed ongoing engagements with international partners to establish a global coalition to address this shared threat and noted the importance of coordination between governments at the federal and subnational levels and the private sector to confront this complex challenge. Secretary Blinken also highlighted efforts he witnessed on his travel within the United States – including to Denver and the Centers for Disease Control – where innovative work is taking place to deal with treatment, prevention, recovery, and partnership with law enforcement when it comes to illicit fentanyl. He also expressed his commitment to continue working with Congress to develop solutions.