The Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, in collaboration with the CBRN Safety and Security Agency of the NAST, hosted a high-level international event on 15th October 2024 in Hyatt Regency Hotel, Dushanbe. During the event, project proposals were presented for the establishment of the International Training Facility for Countering Terrorism using Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) materials. In addition to this project, more than 30 other project proposals in the field of CBRN were also presented.

The event was opened by Dr. Kobiljon Khushvaktzoda, President of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, who emphasized the importance of scientific and technical cooperation in addressing the pressing security issues related to WMD and CBRN threats. He noted that Tajikistan aims to play a leading role in strengthening regional and global security through the creation of this advanced training center.

In his remarks, Dr. Ilhom Mirsaidzoda, Director of the CBRN Safety and Security Agency of the Academy, highlighted the center’s mission to provide world-class training for schoolchildren, students, military personnel, and law enforcement officers in Tajikistan and other countries. "This center will not only strengthen our national capacities but will also serve as a platform for international cooperation in the fight against terrorism," stated Dr. Mirsaidzoda.

The event was attended by representatives from 14 embassies, including the embassies of Russia, the USA, Saudi Arabia, the European Delegation, and others. Additionally, 16 international organizations participated, including the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and others, demonstrating broad international support for Tajikistan’s initiative.

During the event, more than 30 project proposals were also presented, covering various aspects of CBRN. These projects focus on areas such as capacity building, infrastructure development, technological innovation, and international cooperation. The proposed projects are expected to significantly enhance the region’s ability to prevent the proliferation of CBRN materials and effectively respond to related threats, including terrorism.

The high level of diplomatic participation highlights the global nature of WMD and CBRN threats and the importance of multilateral cooperation in overcoming them. The event provided a platform for discussions on partnership opportunities and support from donor countries and international organizations.

On behalf of the international partners, a representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime expressed strong support for Tajikistan’s efforts, calling the proposed center "a critical tool for enhancing global security."

The International Training Facility for Countering WMD and CBRN Terrorism is set to become a key element of regional and international cooperation, offering extensive training programs for schoolchildren, students, military personnel, law enforcement officers, and emergency responders. The event concluded with several participants reaffirming their commitment to continue discussions on funding and partnership models, with plans to begin implementing the initial projects in the near future.