President Tokayev outlines priorities of Kazakhstan’s chairmanship of CSTO

President Tokayev outlines priorities of Kazakhstan’s chairmanship of CSTO

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.