SOCHI, 23 September (BelTA) – It is vital for the security of the CSTO member states to help Tajikistan reinforce the border with Afghanistan. President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko made the statement at the session of the Collective Security Council of the Collective Security Treaty Organization in Sochi on 23 September, BelTA has learned.
The Belarusian head of state said: “Everyone knows that Americans show their interest in the region and we hear frequent reports about the intention of the USA and NATO to leave some armaments and hardware, which are now in Afghanistan, in the area. They are even ready to finance the construction of border guard posts at the Tajikistan-Afghanistan border”.
“But nothing is free. It is possible that they will ask something in return for their services. We should discuss and make up our minds whether it will be beneficial for allies in the CSTO. I doubt it,” said Alexander Lukashenko.
Taking into account the current situation, the Belarus President believes that Tajikistan’s difficulties are a topical question for the CSTO at present. “The problems that originate from Afghanistan are transnational. If we don’t act, they will grow larger like a snowball. Therefore, it is vital for our own security to render aid to Tajikistan,” noted the Belarusian leader.
Alexander Lukashenko remarked that the possibility of aiding Tajikistan has been discussed many times at various levels in recent years. In particular, Belarus has decided to offer free Military Academy tuition to Tajikistani officers.
“But now we have to take decisive steps to prevent this threat. It is what allies expect of us,” believes the Belarusian head of state.
“Only through common efforts and with a proper level of coordination we will be able to effectively help the ally, which needs real aid,” stressed the Belarus President.
Новости Беларуси (БЕЛТА)
Written by belta.by
