Shri Anand Sharma, Minister for Commerce and Industry, led the Indian delegation to the 3rd Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) at HOS/G level held today in Istanbul, Turkey. The Summit was attended by leaders from 20 existing Member countries of CICA. Vietnam and Iraq joined as new Members while Bangladesh became an Observer. Several other countries and international organizations also attended the Summit as Observers/Guests.

The Declaration adopted by the 3rd CICA Summit recognizes the important role being played by the CICA in meeting the challenges faced by the world community in general and Asia in particular. Member States reaffirmed their commitment to continue to develop CICA as a forum for dialogue and to enhance cooperation. Member States condemned terrorism and regarded it as the most serious threat to international peace and security.

On the margins of the Summit, CIM Shri Anand Sharma held discussions with President Abdullah Gul of Turkey and Prime Minister Putin of Russia, FM Dipu Moni of Bangladesh and FM Kasit Piromya of Thailand. These discussions afforded an opportunity to reiterate India's commitment to furthering bilateral relations in the spirit of friendship and cooperation.

Istanbul