The second meeting of interior and public security ministers in the “Central Asia–China” format was held in Astana, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan reported.

The meeting brought together Tajik Interior Minister Ramazon Rahimzoda, the interior ministers of Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as China’s minister of public security.

Participants underscored the importance of strengthening joint efforts to combat transnational organized crime.

Rahimzoda said issues related to fighting transnational crime have become increasingly significant for the region.

“Threats linked to terrorism, extremism and separatism require us to continuously strengthen security measures and expand international cooperation,” Rahimzoda said.

Discussions focused on combating the illegal trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, preventing their cross-border transportation, countering the online distribution of drugs through internet platforms and messaging services, and improving mechanisms for international cooperation in fighting cybercrime.