DUSHANBE, 03.12.2020 (NIAT Khovar) – The social, financial and economic crisis that came as a result of the pandemic had a qualitative impact on the expected growth of the world economy, led to an increase in the unemployment rates, and threatened food security. This was said yesterday by President Emomali Rahmon at a meeting of the CSTO Collective Security Council.

“Along with this, the global threats of terrorism, extremism, various forms of radicalism and transnational organized crime, including drug trafficking, tend to increase,” Emomali Rahmon said.

According to President Emomali Rahmon, various terrorist and extremist forces continue to be active in different regions of the world, including in the immediate vicinity of the CSTO zone of responsibility.

“In this context, we are following with concern the negative development of the situation in Afghanistan, including in its north-eastern regions,” Emomali Rahmon noted.

He also noted that these circumstances require an adequate response, including by taking the necessary measures to strengthen the protection of the CSTO southern borders.

“In light of the current tense situation in the world and in the region, the relevance of building up the CSTO’s potential to effectively counter threats and security challenges is increasing many fold,” he pointed out to the meeting participants.

Following yesterday’s meeting, the functions of the CSTO chairmanship have officially transferred to Tajikistan.

“We will continue to ensure a safe and peaceful life for our peoples. In this context, we have outlined a number of measures that are designed to expand the range of goals and objectives being tackled today within the framework of the organization,” Emomali Rahmon said.