Dushanbe, 25.05.2016 / NIAT “Khovar” /.  The Founder of Peace and National Unity — Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan H.E. Mr. Emomali Rahmon met today with the Speaker of the Shura Council of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia  (Majlis al-Shūra al-Sa’ūdiyy ) Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh at the Palace of the Nation.

During the talks, both sides discussed issues of current state and prospects of bilateral relations between Tajikistan and Saudi Arabia in the priority areas of mutual interest.

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon at the beginning of the conversation, recalling the good intentions of senior management of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the expansion of bilateral relations with the Republic of Tajikistan, expressed the hope that this special interest and attention will continue to contribute to the expansion and development of the historical relationships between the two friendly countries.

During constructive conversation the sides exchanged views on strengthening the inter-parliamentary relations, including the creation of a Joint Parliamentary Committee of Friendship of Tajikistan and Saudi Arabia, the development and expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation in economy, trade, investment, science, education, culture, as well as on the revitalization of the Joint Commission of Tajikistan and Saudi Arabia on trade-economic and scientific-technical cooperation.

The parties stressed the importance of humanitarian assistance, promptly provided by Saudi Arabia to Tajikistan for the elimination of consequences of natural disasters and the continuation of the charitable action by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre.

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon expressed satisfaction with the constant attention of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to expand constructive relations between the two countries, sustainable development cooperation, as well as the fruitful results of the visit to the holy land of Saudi Arabia

Further inter-parliamentary ties, as part of the friendly relations and constructive cooperation have been called crucial in deepening and expanding relationships.

Among other topics of conversation were also questions about the Hajj and Umrah by the citizens of Tajikistan. In this context Emomali Rahmon expressed gratitude for the creation of favorable conditions for Tajik pilgrims.

At the meeting other pressing regional and global issues were discussed, including the threat of international terrorism and extremism, the fight against organized crime and crimes of defaming Islam light.

The talks were held in a friendly atmosphere that reflected understanding, friendship and willingness to promote existing cooperation in all fields.