Shanghai Five To Crack Down On International Terrorism

Shanghai Five countries are to interact with all the concerned parties for the sake of countering destructive forces that threaten regional security, reads a joint communique dealing with the results of the April 28 Moscow conference that involved the Foreign Ministers of Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kirghizia and Tajikistan. The document voices serious concern over more active terrorism, separatism and extremism, as well as more substantial illicit drug trafficking and arms contraband. In this connection, it's highly important that the regional anti-terrorist center start operating in Bishkek, Kirghizia as soon as possible, the communique notes. Conference participants also confirmed the fact that the activities of the Shanghai Five, which is not some kind of a bloc, were not spearheaded against third countries. The sides intend to expand their mutual interaction in the most diverse areas; among other things, they want to expand confidence-building measures in the vicinity of their common border. Moreover, their respective foreign ministries, defense ministries, law-enforcement agencies and secret services aspire for mutual cooperation, as well. The Shanghai Five also plans to wage a joint struggle against terrorism, separatism and extremism, expanding mutual trade-and-economic partnership all the same. According to the document, such interaction can create favorable conditions for enhancing peace and stability, also making it possible to ensure the Asian region's development. Besides, Shanghai Five Foreign Ministers backed the initiative of Central Asian countries, which suggest establishing a regional nuclear-free zone. The relevant international treaty, which should conform to the principles of similar agreements, should not be detrimental to the security of Central Asian states, the communique reads in part.