Putin calls on CSTO countries to step up coordination

Member states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) have built up considerable experience of cooperation. Given international tensions, however, they need to step up coordination of their efforts to address the tasks facing the CSTO.

Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, made this point in an address to participants of the International Forum on Ensuring Collective Security. The message was read out by Alexey Overchuk, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia.

“The CSTO member states have accumulated considerable experience of constructive cooperation. At the same time, given the persisting international tensions, it is clearly important to thoroughly build up the organization’s capacity and the coordination of efforts to address the tasks facing it. This applies primarily to defense, countering terrorism and extremism, and combating cybercrime, drug trafficking and illegal migration,” Putin said.

The Russian president noted that the forum had brought together representatives of government bodies, military agencies and defense industry enterprises, as well as scientists and experts. “During the plenary session and round tables, you will assess the impact of modern challenges on the geopolitical situation in Eurasia and discuss measures to strengthen regional security and stability,” the Russian leader said.

He expressed confidence that the forum would be held in a constructive atmosphere and that the proposals and initiatives presented there would be put to practical use for the benefit of the peoples of the CSTO member states.