THE REPUBLIC OF TAJIKISTAN IN COUNTERING INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM WITHIN CENTRAL ASIA

 In the context of globalization, when terrorism has acquired an international character, the world has become vulnerable. Modern international terrorism has become more destructive and international, declaring an unspoken war on the principles of democracy, freedom and civilization enshrined in the UN Charter. Despite the severe pressure and efforts from the international community, international terrorism does not stop trying to adapt to new conditions of existence.

Currently, the actions of the forces of international terrorism and extremism have shaken the foundations of international security, caused an unstable situation in various regions of the world and the emergence of threats to the life and well-being of ordinary citizens.

Moreover, the phenomena of international terrorism are increasingly intensifying, which poses a great threat to the fate of the world.

That is why today the joint and purposeful struggle of states and peoples, international institutions and societies, first of all, against the roots and causes of terrorism is of particular importance.

The terrorist threat has increased many times over and reached the level of the main challenge to international security. Terrorists do not yet possess all modern military technical means, but they have already stretched out their hands to chemical weapons, their actions extend far beyond the boundaries of one region, and it is difficult to predict where to expect new major attacks.

The use of the most important achievements in the field of science and technology by extremist and terrorist organizations and criminal communities has become an integral fact of our time.

Today, Central Asia has become one of the most important geopolitical centers of the modern world and unique geographical connections.

It is no coincidence that the heads of states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, within the framework of this transnational organization, have been emphasizing that “Central Asia is the axis of the SCO” for years.

Today, we, the leaders of the region, in the Joint Declaration that will be adopted at the end of the summit, reaffirm our strategic position regarding the continuation of the UN as a universal global organization.

The UN, with its universally recognized legitimacy, plays a central role in maintaining the peace and security of the Planet.

In recent years, we have noticed a lot of interest of leading global and regional powers in Central Asia.

In such conditions, it is important for us to show the unity of Central Asia and take more active steps in the way of intra-regional integration.

Taking into account the crisis of the international security system and the increasing possibility of conflicts, the issues related to ensuring regional stability are in the center of our constant attention.

The threat of international terrorism and extremism, illegal drug trafficking, organized cross-border and cyber crimes will not decrease. The situation in Afghanistan has become a cause of special concern for us. The humanitarian crisis in this neighboring country is intensifying day by day.

Tajikistan will continue to use its border infrastructure and logistics capabilities to provide targeted assistance to the people of Afghanistan. International organizations and other partners provide humanitarian aid to this country through six bridges on the border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan.

The main goal of the Republic of Tajikistan in the framework of cooperation with the UN, Interpol, CIS, SCO, OIC and other organizations is to create favorable social and economic conditions for the stabilization of the humanitarian situation and peace and stability in the regions of Central Asia and in all countries of the world.

At the same time, we observe the increase in the activity of various terrorist groups in Afghanistan. In recent years, we have faced attempts to breach the border and its illegal crossing by various terrorist groups. Not long ago, two attempts to cross the border by “Ansar-ullah” fighters were prevented by the law enforcement authorities. It should be noted that their goal was to carry out a series of terrorist attacks in the Republic of Tajikistan and other regions of Tajikistan.

The volume of drug smuggling from Afghanistan to Central Asian countries is increasing. The numbers are a clear proof of these statements. Only the competent authorities of our country seized about five (5) tons of drugs last year on the border with Afghanistan. This indicator is twenty two (22%) percent higher than the year two thousand and twenty one (2021). In such conditions, we need to act together and in cooperation. We must always remember that the factor of security and stability is the most important condition for the successful implementation of our plans and constructive actions.

In general, today terrorism and extremism, threatening the security of the world and every inhabitant of the planet, like the plague of the century, pose no less a danger to humanity than nuclear weapons. The fight against terrorism and extremism requires creating an atmosphere of trust, respect for mutual interests and the unification of all countries of the world against this common threat.

Thus, today the optimal task is to intensify effective cooperation, coordination and interaction of the world community in the fight against international terrorism. This, first of all, involves increasing international efforts to enhance the exchange of accurate information, interaction between Central Asian states and regional organizations, effective cooperation at all levels on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and improving coordination in planning responses to terrorist acts.

Ergash AKHMEDOV,

PhD in Law, Associate Professor of Departament International LawFaculty of Diplomacy and Politics

Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan