DUSHANBE. October 15, 2022 /NIAT «Khovar»/. Russia and Central Asian nations emphasize the importance of combating the use of information and communication technologies for criminal purposes, the leaders of Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan said in a joint statement following a Central Asia — Russia summit on Friday.

«We call for coordinated work to address threats in the field of international information security, which may exacerbate friction in the global media space. We acknowledge the importance of stepping up efforts on the national, bilateral and multilateral levels, particularly in the fight against the use of information and communication technologies for criminal purposes,» the parties pointed out.

The heads of state also highlighted the importance of boosting cooperation in the field of digital transformation of social life. «We will make efforts to boost and strengthen cooperation in the field of mass communications in order to maintain content, hold mutual events and organize the advance training of journalists from Russia and Central Asian countries,» the statement said.

At the same time, the presidents of the six countries expressed concern about a rise in the number of challenges posing a threat to universal values and social unity. The Central Asia — Russia summit was held for the first time to mark the 30th anniversary of Russia’s diplomatic relations with the five Central Asian nations.