BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan

18 October 2012

Under UNRCCA auspices, Deputy Foreign Ministers from Central Asian countries discussed security challenges in Central Asia. The discussion took place in the framework of the fourth annual meeting of Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs traditionally facilitated by the UN Regional Centre.

In the framework of the meeting, participants reviewed UNRCCA activities implemented in 2011-2012, and discussed the main priorities of the Centre for 2013.

They exchanged views on issues related to strengthening regional cooperation and UNRCCA initiatives aimed at assisting the countries of Central Asia in their efforts to address challenges to peace, security and stability in the region.

Participants also discussed the potential impact on the countries in the region of the approaching withdrawal of international combat forces from Afghanistan and measures to cope with this challenge.

The presence of Ambassador Levent Bilman, Director of Policy and Mediation Division with the Department of Political Affairs (UN Headquarters) at the meeting provided with an opportunity to discuss the concept of preventive diplomacy and its potential to defuse tensions in escalating crises and to assist parties in resolving disputes peacefully.

The participants expressed support for the efforts of the UN Regional Centre to create conditions conducive for achieving durable solutions to regional challenges, taking into account interests and needs of all Central Asian countries.

JOINT STATEMENT: FOURTH MEETING OF DEPUTY MINISTERS OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF CENTRAL ASIAN STATES