The resolution, adopted on the initiative of the CSTO member states, underlines potential of the organization in strengthening regional stability, peacekeeping, combating narcotics and other organized crimes.

CSTO unites Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The organization was founded on 7 October 2002.

Presenting the draft resolution Russian Permanent Representative to the United Nations Vitaly Churkin said that the CSTO has been observer status in the General Assembly since 2004. The agreement on peacekeeping activity between the CSTO and the UN entered into force on 16 January 2009, the UN News Center said.

“The new resolution will make it possible to really strengthen interaction between the CSTO and the UN, expand their mutual abilities to assist the efforts to ensure peace, security and cooperation on the regional and global scale,” Churkin said. He said the mechanism of CSTO peacekeeping activity can be used in peacekeeping operations, including under the aegis of the UN.

The adopted resolution said the General Assembly takes into account information about activity of the CSTO on strengthening regional security and stability, peacekeeping, combating terrorism, illegal drug and weapon circulation, organized crime and helps to realize goals and principles of the UN.

The document underlined importance of strengthening dialogue, cooperation and coordination between two organizations. The resolution offered to hold regular consultations between secretariats of two bodies. It also suggested other UN bodies, such as UNODC, Counterterroism Committee, to cooperate and establish direct contacts with the CSTO.