The next step of CICA activities will be aimed at continuing joint efforts for the elaborate implementation of CBMs, mentioned in the CICA CBMs Catalogue, as well as formulating a common approach to the new threats and challenges in Asia.

It should be especially emphasized that CICA differs from Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), ASEAN Regional Forum, and other organizations because of its unique structure, which primarily provides for creation of a pan-Asian mechanism of security. This is the basic difference between CICA and other regional organizations.

Besides, it is necessary to note that CICA, in its present format, is a unique forum for the exchange of views, initiation of dialogue and, in due course, transition from confrontation to compromise and consensus. CICA is a forum for dialogue and consultations on issues of Asian security, whereas ASEAN and SCO are organizations with a charter and executing agencies.

It is true that there is considerable convergence between these bodies because all of them are involved in issues relating to security in the Asian continent, but their functions and organizational structures are different. Between these structures there are no contradictions - they work parallel to and positively supplement each other.

The task of CICA is not to compete with anyone but to fill up the "gaps" in Asia, thereby raising its potential and advantage by strengthening the existing basis of cooperation. And with the passage of time, it has become clear that there is need for CICA, which is involved in seeking common approaches and emphasizing the importance of dialogue among Asian countries.

CICA Acting Chairman President Nursultan Nazarbayev recently noted: "Together with other states, we are ready to support the efforts directed towards rapprochement of the East and the West in understanding of key issues of the modern world order by every possible means. Neighboring countries cannot cooperate in a normal way or build plans for the future without trusting each other. Mistrust sometimes may be good as a method, but it always loses as a principle.

"We are confident that moving forward, the CICA will efficiently play the role of a collective mechanism of ensuring security in the Asian continent. Thus, the mandate of CICA is clear - it is the creation of a unique structure for regional security. And in what form the given objective will be achieved depends exclusively on the will and mutual understanding of the members of the conference".

(China Daily 10/15/2007 page7)