Lavrov called the new threats and challenges around Afghanistan the main ones in the work of the CSTO

New threats and challenges in the Central Asian region, especially around Afghanistan, are central to the work of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). This was announced on February 2 by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

"I express our most sincere wishes and success (in the new position — Ed.) <...> in areas that are currently one of the central ones for the CSTO, I mean new threats and challenges, bearing in mind the situation in the Central Asian region of collective security <...>...> everything related to what is happening in and around Afghanistan," Lavrov said during talks with CSTO Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov.

Lavrov also called Masadykov one of the best experts on the region and declared Russia's readiness to cooperate "most closely" with the organization.

Share the power: Russia is ready to equip the CSTO countries with its weapons

What tasks does the Russian Federation intend to accomplish during its chairmanship in the organization?

On January 1, Lavrov said that Russia, which holds the CSTO presidency, would continue to develop the main areas of cooperation, including efforts to strengthen the organization's security component. The Minister noted that special attention will be paid to the development of the CSTO's military component, including building up the combat potential of the collective forces, equipping them with modern and compatible weapons and equipment.

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