Editor's Note.

October was a month marked by events that sought to foster cooperation between states and presented opportunities for development. Kazakhstan's beautiful capital Astana hosted the sixth Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) from October 12-13. This year marked the 30th anniversary of CICA, and the objective of the states was to form such confidence-building measures that would address human insecurity issues, foster cooperation in the areas of environment and trade, eliminate terrorism, and encourage mutual respect among the states. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif traveled to Astana on 12th October to represent Pakistan at such an important regional intergovernmental organization for the Summit. Apart from sharing his views on Pakistan's longstanding support for the forum and relationship with Kazakhstan, the Prime Minister of Pakistan has made important remarks. He has also met several heads of state participating on the sidelines of the Summit. CICA is one of Asia's most influential regional intergovernmental organizations in Asia. With 27 member countries, nine observer states, and five observer organizations, including five partner organizations, CICA carries a vital weight at the regional level. The organization aims to promote peace, cooperation, security, and stability in Asia.

With such a massive gathering of nations across Asia, CICA has a vital role, especially in the regional peace and prosperity structures. Over the past three decades, CICA has remained instrumental in bringing forth opportunities for dialogue. This forum has also reflected Kazakhstan's more substantial global presence as a country fostering regional and international peace. In a video message, the Secretary-General of the United Nations expressed his gratitude for the partnership with CICA and the pursuit of advancing the shared goal of sustainable development. In the meeting, the leaders of the CICA states agreed to initiate a structured, inclusive, and transparent negotiation process to transform the conference into a fully functional regional international organization. The summit made progress on creating a suitable environment for regional and sub-regional economic cooperation and inclusive growth of nations. During the meeting, several decisions and documents were adopted. CICA has also been transformed into a complete full-fledge inter-regional organization with the appointment of the Secretary-General and...