DUSHANBE, August 1, 2008, Asia-Plus  -- We will provide assistance to Afghanistan and Tajikistan in combating drug trafficking, acting US Central Command (CENTCOM) chief, Lieutenant-General Martin Dempsey, told journalists in Dushanbe on July 31, after his meeting with President Emomali Rahmon.    

According to him, the United States will continue providing assistance to Tajikistan with strengthening of security on its border with Afghanistan, which is used by smugglers for drug trafficking, through training of officers from relevant services and providing technical assistance.  

On the drug-trafficking situation in Afghanistan, the US general noted that to make fight against drug trafficking more effective it is necessary to provide the Afghan people with alternative sources of living. 

Martin Dempsey was in Dushanbe yesterday for a short visit and after talks with Defense Minister Sherali Khairulloyev and President Emomali Rahmon he left Dushanbe for Baghdad. 

Lieutenant-General Martin Dempsey assumed temporary command of U.S. Central Command in March this year, replacing Navy Admiral William J. Fallon, who relinquished his post after just one year in the assignment.