CIS Security Chiefs Convene in Bishkek Amid Rising Regional Tensions

The 54th meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Security Agencies and Special Services was held on May 24, 2024, at the Ala Archa State Residence in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The meeting, chaired by Kamchybek Tashiev, the Chairman of the State National Security Committee, saw the participation of top security officials from Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, and Azerbaijan.

Why this matters:

The meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Security Agencies and Special Services highlights the growing concerns over regional security and the need for cooperation among member states to combat terrorism and extremism. The outcome of this meeting could have significant implications for regional stability and the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts in the CIS region.

The primary focus of the meeting was on developing unified approaches to identify and neutralize security threats, particularly those posed by individuals who have received combat training abroad and aim to destabilize CIS member states. Enhancing cooperation and information exchange among intelligence services in combating terrorism and religious extremism was also a key agenda item.

During the meeting, Alexander Bortnikov, Director of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), made significant claims regarding Ukraine's involvement in a recent terrorist attack in Moscow. Bortnikov stated, "Ukraine's military intelligence is directly related" to the terrorist attack at the Crocus City Hall music venue on March 22, 2024. He added that the attack plans, financing, and escape logistics were coordinated online by members of the Islamic State – Khorasan Province terrorist group.

Bortnikov further noted that one of the terrorists' goals was to damage Moscow's relationship with other CIS members "by using religious and ethnic factors." In connection with this attack, Russian authorities have arrested more than 20 suspects, including four Tajikistani nationals who carried out the attack. Videos circulating online have shown federal agents torturing the men after their capture, leading to a nationwide crackdown on Central Asian migrants.

The meeting also included a comprehensive report from the CIS Anti-Terrorist Center (ATC) on the outcomes of the 2023 implementation of the CIS member states' cooperation program on combating terrorism and other forms of violent extremism for the period 2023-2025. This report highlighted the progress made in countering these threats and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation among CIS member states.

The 54th meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Security Agencies and Special Services underscored the ongoing efforts to strengthen regional security and address the evolving threats posed by terrorism and extremism. As the participating countries continue to face shared security challenges, the importance of collaboration and information sharing remains paramount.

Key Takeaways

• CIS security officials met in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to discuss regional security concerns.
• Meeting focused on combating terrorism and extremism, particularly from individuals trained abroad.
• Russia's FSB director claimed Ukraine's involvement in a recent Moscow terrorist attack.
• CIS Anti-Terrorist Center reported progress in countering terrorism and emphasized continued cooperation.
• Meeting underscored importance of regional security cooperation and information sharing.