Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Dec.27
By Huseyn Hasanov- Trend:
A law 'On health protection from exposure to tobacco smoke and the effects of tobacco consumption' adopted by the Majlis (parliament) has taken effect in Turkmenistan, a message from the Turkmen government said on Dec.26.
According to the new law, smoking of tobacco products in certain areas, in business premises, organisations and institutions has been banned. Additionally, advertising of tobacco products in any form in the media and trade areas has been banned.
Now smoking in parks, squares, beaches, public catering enterprises, consumer services, trade areas, in territories and premises of cultural and educational institutions, in the premises of public authorities, local authorities, businesses, organisations and institutions regardless of the form of ownership is prohibited in Turkmenistan.
It should be noted that the distribution of tobacco products among the population free of charge, including in the form of gifts, as well as the use of any promotional discounts on tobacco products has been prohibited.
In accordance with the law, the state is ready to provide medical assistance to those in need of treatment for tobacco dependency and its consequences.
In one of his public speeches in Ashgabat, Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said that relevant activities has been carried out in this sphere since 2000 and positive results have been achieved.
"The number of people using tobacco products have sharply declined compared to the 1990s. We continue to work in this direction, contributing towards the creation of a tobacco free zone by Europe," the president said in early December at the European Ministerial conference of the World health Organisation (WHO) on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases.
Turkmenistan joined WHO in 1992.
Experts stress that smoking has led to worldwide tobacco related health epidemics spread by free trade, direct foreign investments, global marketing, transnational advertising, promotion of sale and sponsorship of tobacco, as well as the international movement of contraband and counterfeit cigarettes.
In response to the high spread of smoking among the population, the World Health Organisation adopted the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). Turkmenistan also signed this convention in 2011.
Translated by L.Z.
Edited by S.M.