Burkhard Blienert, Germany’s former Federal Government Commissioner for Addiction and Drug Issues and a previous keynote speaker at the International Cannabis Business Conference in Berlin, recently announced that he has accepted a role with the German Association of Pharmaceutical Cannabinoid Companies (BPC).

“The German Association of Pharmaceutical Cannabinoid Companies (BPC) is strengthening its political expertise: Burkhard Blienert, former Federal Government Commissioner for Addiction and Drug Issues, has been working for the association as Senior Advisor for political strategy consulting since November 1.” BPC stated in a press release (translated from German to English). “In his new role, the former SPD Member of Parliament will advise the BPC and its member companies on political and strategic issues, particularly regarding the further development of the legal framework for medical cannabis in Germany.”

“We are delighted to welcome Burkhard Blienert to the BPC. With him, we have gained a proven expert in German drug and health policy for our association, who, during his time in office, advocated for the decriminalization of cannabis and thus for a clear paradigm shift,” said Antonia Menzel, Chair of the BPC Board. “His comprehensive knowledge of political processes and his experience in dealing with nationwide addiction and drug issues are of great value to the BPC. With his support, we aim to further optimize the security of supply and the framework for patients who depend on medical cannabis.”

“As Federal Drug Commissioner, I have always advocated for patients to receive the appropriate, medically necessary therapies without unnecessary obstacles. The BPC performs essential work in this area to ensure quality and care in the field of medical cannabis treatment. I look forward to now directly contributing my experience to the association’s work and further advancing the establishment of cannabinoid medicines as an equal treatment option.” Mr. Blienert added.

Below is an embedded video of Mr. Blienert providing a keynote address at a previous International Cannabis Business Conference in Berlin when he was serving as Germany’s Commissioner on Narcotic Drugs at the Federal Ministry of Health. Congratulations to BPC and Mr. Blienert on what will no doubt be a collaboration that will help move Germany’s emerging medical cannabis industry forward: