In an open and friendly discussion Stefanovic and Naryshkin expressed pleasure at the strengthening of interparliamentary cooperation and the friendly relations the Serbian and Russian people share.

The National Assembly Speaker was grateful that the Serbian Parliament had been granted the status of observer at the CSTO PA and so taken part in the work of all the organisation’s structures. Stefanovic pointed out that Serbia wishes to remain military neutral, but the development of relations with CSTO means cooperation in all spheres, especially the fight against terrorism and other security threats and challenges. The cooperation with CSTO is also important for Serbia because it offers the opportunity for cooperation with the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States, Euro-Asian Interstate Council and other political and economic unions such at BRIC.

Addressing the members of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation, National Assembly Speaker Nebojsa Stefanovic declared the contemporary world order very complex, pointing out the need to recognise the reality of the situation – there are several centres of power. He commended the strengthening of all states which contribute to the stability of the international order, as well as associations aimed at ensuring peace, security and stability.

State Duma Speaker S.E. Naryshkin thanked the Serbian delegation for its visit to St. Petersburg and again congratulated the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia on the status of observer at the CSTO PA.

The National Assembly delegation at the friendly organisation will comprise five members.

In addition to the National Assembly Speaker, MA Nebojsa Stefanovic, the meeting of the CSTO PA Council is also attended by MPs Milovan Drecun and Jovan Palalic.