Marat Kozhaev: Joint CSTO Measures Help Counter Modern Challenges and Threats Effectively

Marat Kozhaev, Chairman of the Committee on International Affairs, Defense and Security of Kazakhstan's Kurultai, presented his country's position on collective security at a conference marking the 20th anniversary of the CSTO Parliamentary Assembly. 

He underlined that joint measures within the CSTO enable member states to counter modern challenges and threats effectively, coordinate defensive actions and promptly respond to crises. 

Marat Kozhaev, who also chairs the CSTO PA Permanent Commission on Political Affairs and International Cooperation, stated that further strengthening the CSTO's parliamentary dimension will help improve legal mechanisms and make the collective security system more resilient.

"A key element of this work is the CSTO Parliamentary Assembly, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Over two decades, the Assembly has established itself as an effective platform for interparliamentary dialogue on collective security," Marat Kozhaev pointed out.

In his view, collective security is inextricably linked to the resilience of national political systems and the ability of states to meet modern challenges. As an example, he named the far-reaching political modernization in Kazakhstan initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

"Internal stability is a solid foundation for consistency in foreign affairs. The successful outcome of important domestic political events in member states is key to strengthening collective security across the entire CSTO area. Parliaments play an special role in this process: they are to provide a solid legal basis for cooperation and to strengthen mutual trust," Marat Kozhaev emphasized.