Dushanbe, 16.02.2016. (NIAT “Khovar”). – The European Union (EU) and the Republic of Tajikistan held their fifth Cooperation Council meeting on 16 February 2016. The meeting was chaired by Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, as the Netherlands Presidency in the EU. The delegation of the Republic of Tajikistan was led by Mr. Sirodjidin Aslov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan.

The agenda of the meeting covered key aspects of partnership and cooperation between the EU and the Republic of Tajikistan, political and economic issues, human rights, as well as international and regional issues.

During the Cooperation Council meeting, the sides discussed the development of relations between Tajikistan and the European Union, as well as further steps to enhance this cooperation. Key areas of cooperation, the state of relations in the field of trade and economy, including the implementation of national strategy for development and poverty reduction were also considered at the meeting. The parties also touched upon the issues of water and energy, border security, fight against terrorism and extremism, human rights and the rule of law, as well as exchanged views on regional and international issues.

Following the meeting, a press conference was held with participation of the heads of delegations of Tajikistan and the European Union, during which both sides expressed satisfaction with the results of the meeting, and confirmed their interest in the continuation of a constructive and mutually beneficial cooperation.