The Organization for Islamic Cooperation, Iran and US Charge d’Affairs Ian McCarry recently welcomed the Islamic Emirate’s ban on poppy cultivation across Afghanistan.

OIC Secretary-General H.E. Hissein Brahim Taha praised the Islamic Emirate’s decision to ban poppy cultivation and said the cultivation of alternative crops, and rehabilitation programs for drug addicts, should be a part of the international community's assistance to Afghanistan.

McCarry said on Twitter that outlawing the production of narcotics in Afghanistan is a positive step but enforcement will be key.

“Having a healthy and licit agricultural sector will help Afghanistan’s economy and ultimately the Afghan people,” said Ian McCarry.

In the meantime, Iranian officials said that Iran welcomes any reduction in the cultivation of poppies and the production of narcotics in Afghanistan.

Afghan officials said the government will make efforts to provide an alternative harvest for farmers and as well as new jobs for the people. “The government will attempt to bring alternative harvests and to provide opportunities of employment and to start projects,” said Bilal Karimi, Deputy spokesman of the Islamic Emirate.

Meanwhile, several Afghan farmers told TOLOnews that economic challenges have pushed farmers to cultivate poppy.

“It is a beneficial harvest and it forms a part of capital in Afghanistan. You can pay your debts and you can start a business,” said Boor Jan, Kandahar farmer.

The comments come as the Islamic Emirate leader on Sunday issued a decree prohibiting poppy cultivation in Afghanistan and on the production and smuggling of drugs.