The chairmanship of the Collective
Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) will be assumed by Kazakhstan starting
January 1, 2024. The country is ready to contribute to the collective security
system’s further enhancement within the organization, as was emphasized by President
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. He proposed a number of directions that should be the focal
points of the CSTO’s upcoming activities, prioritizing cooperation in the
security sphere with interested countries and international organizations, such
the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and the Shanghai
Cooperation Organization. The second important area is military interaction, the
President highlighted, stressing the need for refining the regulatory framework
for the operational deployment of the CSTO Collective Forces.
“This applies to unhindered and
non-stop transit of contingents, military aviation flights, and other aspects.
It is also necessary to continue developing military personnel training and the
military-scientific potential of the CSTO member states. Special attention is
proposed for unlocking the CSTO’s peacekeeping potential, with a focus on the
activities of the special representative of the CSTO Secretary General on
peacekeeping issues,” Tokayev said.
Another priority area in the CSTO’s
work is the development of cooperation in countering international terrorism
and extremism. The Head of State emphasized that close attention will be given
to the anti-terrorism component of the collective security system and deepening
collaboration to prevent and address the consequences of emergencies.
Additionally, a highly relevant aspect is the organization’s commitment to
combating crimes in information technology and the illegal circulation of
narcotics and psychotropic substances.
“It is necessary to enhance the
effectiveness of joint efforts to protect the CSTO space from the penetration
of these dangerous products. The work should be organized taking into account
all relevant factors, including the increasing spread of synthetic drugs. The
Coordination Council of Heads of Competent Authorities on Combating Illicit
Drug Trafficking plays a crucial role in this,” the President stressed.
A total of 15 documents were
signed following the session. These include the CSTO declaration, a draft
resolution on the organization’s response to crisis situations, provisions for
the CSTO’s united press center, and a protocol for holding the next session at
the end of 2024 in Astana.
