CSTO Strengthened Cooperation in 2020, Shoigu Says

Events held by the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) have strengthened the cooperation of the military departments of its member states. This was stated by Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu on December 1, as reported by Armenpress.

“These events helped to address the priority issues during Russia's presidency in the organization, as well as contributed to strengthening cooperation between our countries' defense ministries,” he said while speaking at a CSTO defense ministers council meeting.

Among the events held, Shoigu particularly highlighted the celebration of the 75th anniversary of Victory and the parade in Red Square, which took place on June 24. He expressed gratitude to his counterparts for the participation of CSTO servicemen in that event.

The minister also spoke about the joint meeting of defense ministers of the CIS, SCO, and CSTO, which was held for the first time in September. He termed the meeting as an “important contribution to strengthening the CSTO's reputation, forming a unified stance on global security, building reliable dialogue, and reinforcing mutual understanding.”