DUSHANBE, 18.04.2019. (NIAT Khovar) – The Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon received the Secretary of State to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne in Dushanbe.

The discussion included the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral relations between Tajikistan and France and within the framework of the European Union partnership.

The conversation extended to the issues related to the development of interagency political consultations, providing regional security and stability, border control, as well as expanding bilateral trade , as well as economic, educational, scientific and cultural cooperation.

Lemoyne extended to President Emomali Rahmon President Emmanuel Macron’s invitation to visit France.

President Emomali Rahmon expressed his gratitude for France’s continual support of Tajikistan in the implementation of national and regional investment projects. Improving social and private sectors, as well as agricultural projects were also mentioned.

Likewise, President Emomali Rahmon expressed his gratitude to the French government for supporting Tajikistan’s international initiatives on water-related issues, especially relating to the consequences of climate change, water resource management and combating international terrorism and extremism.

Sectors like energy, transportation, agriculture and telecommunications and civil aviation were outlined as important areas with the potential to further the bilateral trade between Tajikistan and France.

Opening direct flights between the two countries and organizing art, historical and cultural exhibitions were deemed as important contributors for creating favorable conditions for the development of tourism and the expansion of trade and economic cooperation between Tajikistan and France.

The parties also exchanged views on further expanding interstate relations within the framework of EU’s new strategy for Central Asia.

While discussing international issues, special attention was paid to strengthening Afghanistan’s stability, cooperation in the fight against terrorism, extremism, illicit drug trafficking and other forms of transnational organized crime.