Baku, December 18, 2024 – The Europe Today: The 7th meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs (Ministerial Council) of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) was hosted by Azerbaijan on Tuesday in an online format.
The event brought together high-ranking representatives, including Foreign Ministers, State Ministers, Deputy Foreign Ministers, and heads of delegations from 27 member countries. Leaders from three observer states and eight partner international organizations also participated, underscoring the broad support and engagement with CICA’s mission.
Azerbaijan Takes the Helm of CICA for 2024-2026
During the meeting, Azerbaijan officially assumed the Chairmanship of CICA for the 2024-2026 term. In his address, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov expressed gratitude to member states for entrusting Azerbaijan with this responsibility. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by rising multipolarity and evolving global dynamics, reaffirming that CICA is uniquely positioned to promote such cooperation.
Minister Bayramov outlined Azerbaijan’s vision for its Chairmanship, centered on the theme “Stronger CICA – Connectivity, Digitalization, and Sustainable Growth in Asia.” The priorities of the Azerbaijani Chairmanship will include:
- CICA’s transformation and institutional development.
- Sectoral cooperation through implementation of confidence-building measures.
- Promoting synergy between CICA and other international and regional organizations.
He also announced plans for over 20 Chairmanship events in 2025, spanning all five CICA dimensions. Key focus areas will include transportation corridors, small and medium-sized enterprise development, agriculture, cybersecurity, environmental protection, youth engagement, tourism, cultural heritage preservation, humanitarian mine action, and advancements in science and education.
Expanding Partnerships and Strengthening International Visibility
Azerbaijan aims to enhance CICA’s global visibility and foster partnerships with other international and regional organizations. Minister Bayramov highlighted Azerbaijan’s commitment to increasing the effectiveness and reach of CICA initiatives during its Chairmanship.
Key Achievements and Decisions at the Ministerial Council
Secretary General of CICA Kairat Sarybay presented a “Report on the Achievements of the Conference under the Chairmanship of Kazakhstan (2020-2024),” highlighting significant milestones during the period.
The Ministerial Council adopted several key documents, including:
- A Commemorative Statement on the 25th Anniversary of the Declaration on the Principles Guiding Relations among the CICA Member States.
- The Decision on Modalities of Implementation of CICA Confidence-Building Measures.
- An amended version of the CICA Catalogue of Confidence-Building Measures.
- A Memorandum for the Establishment of the Partnership Network of Leading Universities of CICA Member States.
The successful conclusion of the 7th Ministerial Council meeting reinforces CICA’s ongoing commitment to fostering peace, security, and sustainable development across Asia. Under Azerbaijan’s leadership, the organization is poised to further strengthen its role as a vital platform for regional cooperation.
