Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 13 September (BelTA) – We need to develop the CSTO and turn it into a stronger organization without threatening anyone, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said as he met with Secretary General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) Nikolai Bordyuzha on 13 September, BelTA has learned.

“I would like you to inform me about the current status and trends in the organization, and the agenda. Belarus is taking over the presidency soon. You know that we take such things seriously. Both Belarus and the CSTO always reiterate that the situation in the world has not become calmer, and we need to support the CSTO, develop and turn it into a solid and strong organization,” Alexander Lukashenko said.

The President stressed that this should be done without threatening anyone. “I do not want thunder and lightning break out after our meeting. I do not want to give them grounds to speculate that we are planning some offensive. We do not scheme anything. We need to keep powder dry. This organization is meant for this,” the head of state noted.

Alexander Lukashenko remarked that Belarus will be preparing seriously for the presidency in the CSTO. However, the country hopes for assistance from the CSTO officials in working out a number of serious proposals to the CSTO heads of state.

Nikolai Bordyuzha informed the President about the current initiatives of the Collective Security Treaty Organization and briefed him on the agenda of the forthcoming Collective Security Council session which is expected to take place in Yerevan on 14 October.

Besides, the Secretary General congratulated the head of state on the successful parliamentary elections. “The organization of the event was good which shows once again that all government bodies and other agencies work effectively,” he said.