DUSHANBE - Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov met in Dushanbe with Tajikistan Security Council Secretary Rahmon Yusuf Akhmadzoda. The parties discussed the situation in the CSTO's area of responsibility, the implementation of programs to strengthen the Tajik-Afghan border, and plans for joint activities in 2026, Avesta.tj reports.
During the talks, a thorough exchange of views took place regarding the current situation in the collective security region, as well as in several other strategically significant areas of the world. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the Targeted Interstate Program to Strengthen the Security of the Tajik-Afghan Border—a key area for ensuring regional stability.
Taalatbek Masadykov briefed his counterpart on the progress of the action plan to implement the decisions of the November 2025 session of the CSTO Collective Security Council. The Secretary General also outlined the organization's priority areas of activity during Russia's chairmanship, including preparations for the upcoming meetings of the CSTO statutory bodies.
An important part of the meeting was the discussion of practical measures to enhance the Commonwealth's defense potential. Taalatbek Masadykov announced plans to hold two large-scale joint exercises in Tajikistan in the second half of 2026:
- "Cobalt"—a command and staff exercise to coordinate actions in crisis situations;
- "Rock"—a training exercise to counter sabotage and reconnaissance groups in mountainous terrain.
Furthermore, the parties agreed on a schedule of operational and preventive operations aimed at combating transnational threats:
- "Channel"—counteracting drug trafficking;
- "Mercenary"—suppressing the activities of illegal armed groups;
- "Illegal"—combatting illegal migration.
Tajikistan, which shares a long border with Afghanistan, remains one of the CSTO's key partners in ensuring security on the Commonwealth's southern borders. The implementation of joint programs helps strengthen the capacity of border agencies, improve rapid response mechanisms, and enhance cooperation in addressing common challenges.
The parties reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening cooperation within the CSTO and agreed to maintain regular dialogue on pressing regional security issues.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
April 10, 2026