Meeting with Ambassador of Türkiye

Central Asian Regional Information and Coordination Centre (CARICC) delegation led by Director M. Khamidov met with Mr. Mustafa Kapucu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Türkiye to the Republic of Kazakhstan, on 11 February 2026 in Astana. 

Other participants in the meeting included Mr. Y. Kurbonov, UNODC International Programme Coordinator, and senior officials from the diplomatic mission.

During the meeting parties discussed a wide range of topics related to bilateral and multilateral cooperation, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening cooperation between CARICC and competent agencies of the Republic of Türkiye. Conversations were professional and constructive, contributing to further development of inter-institutional relations.

Particular attention was paid to information exchange and coordination of efforts to combat drug trafficking, including mechanisms for interaction within CARICC framework. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of regular exchange of intelligence and analytical reports, which allows for more effective detection and eradication of cross-border channels for distribution of illicit substances.

Other priority areas of partnership included collaboration with the Republic of Türkiye through the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) and the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). It is feasible to implement joint programs and projects within the framework of these organizations aimed at strengthening institutional capacities and training specialists in the field of combating organized and drug crime.

The meeting devoted special consideration to the development of practical cooperation with the Republic of Türkiye in the field of combating illicit drug trafficking, including through the Turkish International Academy Against Drugs and Organized Crime (TADOC). It was noted that it is important to carry out joint training programs, exchange best practices, and enhance qualifications of staff of competent authorities in Central Asian countries. Participants reaffirmed their interest in further expanding cooperation within the framework of TADOC, including participation of representatives of countries in the region in specialized courses and workshops.

Meetings participants highlighted that strengthening cooperation in drug control is one of the key elements of strategic partnership between CARICC member states and Türkiye, as it promotes more effective response to contemporary security challenges and threats.

Upon conclusion of the meeting, parties expressed mutual commitment to further expanding cooperation and implementing joint initiatives aimed at enhancing effectiveness of regional cooperation in combating illicit drug trafficking and reinforcing law and order.