Fiji, Sept. 17 -- Pacific Islands Forum Leaders have issued a blunt warning that illegal drugs are becoming a major threat to the region's security, health, and social stability.

In their communique, Leaders expressed alarm at the Pacific being used both as a transit route and a market for synthetic drugs, particularly methamphetamines.

"Leaders expressed strong concerns on increased transnational crimes and that the region is being used as both a transit route across multiple pathways and a market for synthetic drugs such as methamphetamines.

"Leaders discussed the rising cases of illegal drugs, addiction, mental health challenges, and noted that violent crimes are placing increasing strain on societal and health systems.

Leaders cau...