President Tokayev Urges Global Unity Amidst Escalating International Tensions at CSTO Summit
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev underscored the gravity of the evolving situation in the Middle East, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action in the face of escalating international tensions during a narrow format session of the Collective Security Council of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) held in Minsk, Akorda press service reported.
Reflecting on the CSTO’s achievements as a formidable military-political organization, President Tokayev cautioned against undue focus on growing threats, asserting, “Frequent statements on this topic create the illusion that we are afraid of someone.”
“Statements of this nature are susceptible to misinterpretation. The organization’s rhetoric should possess a firm yet precise tone, considering the self-esteem of the participating states and their collective military-political capabilities. While the CSTO has demonstrated success as a respected military-political entity, it now faces new challenges that demand alignment with the constructive spirit of its member states,” he emphasized. President Tokayev highlighted the substantial progress in enhancing the CSTO’s potential and mechanisms to counter challenges and threats throughout the year. During an expanded meeting of the Collective Security Council, he outlined key priorities for the organization’s agenda during Kazakhstan’s chairmanship commencing in January of next year.
According to him, the first emphasis will be enhancing cooperation between the CSTO and relevant countries and international bodies in the security domain. Maintaining strong ties with the UN, as outlined in the 2010 Joint Declaration, is a focal point. Additionally, deepening collaboration with the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a priority.
Moreover, the organization will actively combat illicit trafficking in narcotics and psychotropic substances. Tokayev also highlighted the significance of countering illegal arms trafficking and organized transnational crime and deepening cooperation in preventing and addressing the consequences of emergencies. The fight against crimes in information technology is recognized as another crucial area of focus. The session, attended by leaders including Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, and CSTO Secretary General Imangali Tasmagambetov, concluded with the signing of several key documents.
Source: astanatimes
