DUSHANBE, 13.10.2021 (NIAT Khovar) – The Elysee Palace has hosted talks between President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon and President of France Emmanuel Macron.

A guard of honor was lined up to meet him at the Elysee Palace, which was decorated with the national flags of the two nations. President Rahmon was warmly welcomed by President of France Emmanuel Macron.

Following the official welcoming ceremony, the counterparts had a one-on-one discussion. Later the talks continued in an expanded format.

Expressing his gratitude for the warm welcome, President Rahmon expressed his satisfaction with the political relations between Tajikistan and France, which are constantly expanding in the spirit of respect and consideration of national interests of both countries.

Topics on the agenda included the development of bilateral cooperation in trade, the economy, investment, as well as major international and regional issues.

In addition, they discussed priority areas of their multi-dimensional cooperation in various areas, such as energy, metallurgy, light and chemical industries, mechanical engineering and mining.

They also touched upon cooperation in logistics transport, telecommunications, electronics, agriculture, and tourism infrastructure development.

Both leaders also reviewed bilateral relations and efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had a negative impact on the development of cooperation.

President Rahmon stressed that Tajikistan is interested in the implementation of infrastructure and industrial projects, as well as the attraction of modern technology, and the establishment of joint ventures.

He also noted his appreciation for the active participation of the French side in the reconstruction of the airport and air navigation infrastructure, development of the energy sector, power transmission lines, health care, and other areas of mutual interest.

He also noted Tajikistan’s interest in the participation of the French side in the implementation of reforms toward improving financial system efficiency and the banking system of Tajikistan.

They noted that the opening of a representative office of the French Agency for Development in Tajikistan can promote broad cooperation and facilitate the process of effective implementation of development goals.

Activation of the Tajik-French Business Council and the French Association of MEDEF Companies Association was noted as another important opportunity to intensify cooperation in trade and economic spheres.

The officials noted the importance of the development of the roadmap for expansion of cooperation between the two countries for the period up to 2026.

Another item on the agenda was expanding cooperation in the humanitarian fields, as well as culture, science, and education. The opening of branches of French universities and the inclusion of French-speaking teachers, as well as the allocation of quotas for students were also mentioned.

The counterparts also exchanged their views on the situation in Afghanistan.

President Rahmon once again reiterated Tajikistan’s position regarding the necessity of having an inclusive government in Afghanistan. He emphasized that ensuring security in Afghanistan is an important factor for the security of the region as a whole.

At the end of the talks, President Rahmon invited President Macron to pay an official visit to Tajikistan.