DUSHANBE, 17.09.2020. (NIAT Khovar) – The Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon received the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Mohammad Haneef Atmar, who arrived in Tajikistan on a working visit.

The current state and prospects of bilateral relations were discussed with a focus on trade and economic cooperation, people-to-people contact as well as science and education, humanitarian and information spheres. Both parties noted the importance of joint implementation of infrastructure projects of regional significance and exchanged views on topical security matters.

In this context, President of Tajikistan stressed that cooperation with Afghanistan is one of priorities of Tajikistan’s foreign policy, and Tajikistan pays constant attention to expanding cooperation with this neighboring country.

“Government of Tajikistan follows the continuation of vocational education and training of Afghanistani citizens for its various socio-economic spheres” – noted leader of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon.

During the meeting the sides also discussed the importance of further pursuing issues related to the implementation of regional energy infrastructure projects, which is a factor in the wide involvement of Afghanistan in the process of regional cooperation.

A number of other current issues on the bilateral agenda, including opening of inter-Afghan peace negotiations, fight against terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime and the spread of the coronavirus infection, were also discussed.

When exchanging views on key processes in the Afghan political space — the opening of inter-Afghan peace negotiations which is currently attracting the attention of the world community, our President pointed out that Tajikistan has always supported the Afghan Government position in ensuring security and lasting peace and welcomes any initiative that promotes a peaceful solution of Afghan conflict.

In this regard, it was noted that Tajikistan will continue to make more efforts and contributions regarding political solution to the problems in Afghanistan and its socio-economic development in the interests of the brotherly people.

The sides also discussed other regional and international matters being of mutual interest.