The British-Irish Council agreed "elements for a framework for future co-operation" on the misuse of drugs at a summit meeting in Dublin Castle yesterday.
The British Prime Minister, Mr Tony Blair, expressed particular interest in the way the authorities here were tackling organised crime, including the operation of the Criminal Assets Bureau.
A group of senior officials was set up to prepare a series of recommendations aimed at reducing both the demand for illegal drugs and the level of supply.
The British-Irish body was established under the Belfast Agreement in April 1998, but the difficulties in the peace process meant that this was only the second summit meeting: the first took place in London two years ago.
The council represents parliaments and assemblies throughout Britain and in Ireland, North and South. Members exchange information and ideas and endeavour to reach agreement for co-operation on matters of mutual interest.
The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, chaired the meeting, which was also attended by Mr Blair. The devolved administrations were represented by the Northern Ireland First Minister, Mr David Trimble, and the Deputy First Minister, Mr Mark Durkan; the Scottish First Minister, Mr Jack McConnell, and the Welsh First Minister, Mr Rhodri Morgan.
The Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey were also represented.
A communiquΘ released afterwards said drug misuse was the main focus of discussion. "The meeting underlined the commitment of all members at the highest political level to addressing this widespread and growing problem. The proximity and strong cultural similarities of members of the council afford an excellent opportunity for enhanced co-operation and the development of common approaches," it said.
Co-operation would also include "the further development of information exchanges", especially in the areas of research, rehabilitation and reintegration.
The council agreed to consider a joint awareness campaign, "highlighting the risks of heroin use and targeting young people who are using 'recreational' drugs".
Members acknowledged the importance of targeting the assets of criminals engaged in drug-trafficking.
The communiquΘ said: "In this context, the background to the establishment of the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) in Ireland and its success in targeting the assets of drug barons was regarded as significant."
The Minister of State with responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy, Mr Eoin Ryan, told members: "Today's meeting sends a clear message that we are determined to work together in responding to one of the most pressing social issues confronting us all."
The next BIC summit was scheduled for April 2002.