In that context, Interpol is an essential element and has a significant role to play in the campaign against counterfeits and we hope it will be able to take the lead in this area.

International police action against the factories and distribution networks should be as uncompromising as that applied to the pursuit of narcotic smuggling.

People don't die from carrying a fake handbag or wearing a fake t-shirt. They can die from taking a counterfeit medicine.

Countries should think about ways to make the necessary technological, legislative and financial adjustments as quickly as possible to guarantee the availability of quality assured essential drugs.