In his first interview as the Secretary General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Taalatbek Masadykov spoke to the information and analytical publication "CSTO Allies" about important aspects of regional and Eurasian stability. In the conversation, he emphasized the need to enhance the effectiveness of collective rapid response forces and modernize armaments in CSTO units.
Masadykov pointed out that currently, Russia has taken over the presidency of the CSTO, and the course of the organization, as well as a plan for joint activities, has already been approved at the level of heads of state. He noted: "Our vector of interaction with partners is clearly formulated - 'Collective Security in a Multipolar World. A Common Goal – Shared Responsibility.'
According to him, the main task of the CSTO is to maintain peace and stability in the area of responsibility, as well as to create conditions for the safe development of member states. "We have all the necessary tools for the effective execution of this mission," he added.
The Secretary General also spoke about plans to improve the functioning of the CSTO's statutory bodies, strengthen inter-parliamentary cooperation, and develop the forces of the collective security system in response to changes in the military-political situation. Special attention is being paid to coordinating efforts to combat international terrorism, extremism, and the illegal trafficking of drugs and weapons.
"Modern Eurasia is the geopolitical center of a multipolar world, and processes here have a significant impact on the global political and military situation," Masadykov noted, adding that the reasons for the current imbalance in international relations are well known.
He highlighted new threats, including the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to destabilize states. "Modern technologies are becoming a reality, and defense spending is reaching historic highs. We are witnessing an intensification of military-space activities and the emergence of new autonomous systems, which requires special attention," he emphasized.
Masadykov also pointed out the need for coordinated actions to counter the growing threats in the biological and informational spheres. "Unfortunately, there is no unity in the international community regarding these issues. We do not observe successful attempts to create mechanisms for deterring and regulating new dangerous technologies," he noted.
In this context, the CSTO emphasizes preventive and political-diplomatic methods, but also continues to develop capabilities for rapid response to crises. "Within the extended Collective Security Strategy until 2025, we plan to enhance the combat potential of the CSTO, including equipping it with modern reconnaissance and automation systems," he added.
Among the most important tasks, Masadykov noted the implementation of an intergovernmental program to strengthen the Tajik-Afghan border, approved in November 2024. "Currently, the CSTO is assisting in the implementation of the first phase of the program, including coordinating the list of armaments for Tajik border guards," he specified.
Moreover, the CSTO Secretariat is currently actively working to strengthen cooperation with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Commonwealth of Independent States. The Secretaries General of these organizations have signed a Roadmap for joint activities until 2028, which, according to Masadykov, will serve as a basis for more active interaction in the field of security.
He paid special attention to the interaction of the CSTO with the UN, which is carried out within the framework of a resolution updated every two years by the General Assembly. The main areas include conflict prevention, peacekeeping, and combating terrorism and extremism.
