Strengthening cooperation
among regional organizations in Asia was discussed in Astana at a roundtable
marking the 20th anniversary of the Secretariat of the Conference on
Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA). Representatives of
UN agencies and other international organizations took part in the event. Over
the years, CICA has become an effective platform for dialogue and cooperation
among member states. Secretary General Kairat Sarybay noted that amid growing
global challenges — from climate
change to disruptions in supply chains and food security — no country or
organization can effectively address these issues alone. He stressed the need
to strengthen coordination with partners, adding that CICA is actively
expanding its external engagement.
«Since 2007, CICA has held observer status at the
United Nations General Assembly. The organization is developing relations with
other regional structures. Today, we had a very productive roundtable not only
with partners and observers, but also with other stakeholders across our
continent. There is strong demand for our work among member states, and we are
also regarded as a reliable partner by our international counterparts,» said CICA Secretary General Kairat Sarybay.
The festive reception continued the anniversary
programme. A photo exhibition showcasing the key stages of the organization’s
formation and development over the past 20 years drew particular interest from
guests. Notably, the idea of establishing CICA originated in Kazakhstan. Today,
the organization remains one of the largest platforms for dialogue and
interaction, uniting 28 states and encompassing nearly half of the world’s
population — from Central Asia to Eastern Europe.
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