The German government is moving forward with plans to legalize cannabis for recreational use, with legislation expected later this year.
On Monday, The Health Ministry said it will start holding expert hearings on various aspects of the issue starting on Tuesday.
The five hearings will discuss what steps should be taken to offer the best protection for young people, as well as for consumers' health and safety.
More than 200 medical, legal, and other professionals, as well as officials from various levels of government, will attend.
The pledge is one of a series of reforms in the coalition agreement between the three socially liberal parties that make up Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government.
