DUSHANBE, 27.10.2022 (NIAT Khovar) –  On the sideline of the first summit of the heads of states of the Central Asia and European Union in Astana, the Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon met with the President of the European Council Charles Michel.

A wide range of issues pertaining to bilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and the European Union were discussed during the meeting.

At the outset, President Emomali Rahmon expressed that the European Union has a special place in the foreign policy of Tajikistan.

The parties expressed their satisfaction regarding the implementation of the cooperation and partnership agreements, which laid a solid foundation for the expansion of comprehensive cooperation between Tajikistan and the European Union.

Other topics of discussion included the development of cooperation in the field of investment, in particular activities of joint companies and provision of technical and financial assistance for the priority socio-economic sectors of Tajikistan, financial support for the elimination of the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and the negative impact of the political crisis of warring countries on the national economy of Tajikistan.

They noted the necessity of establishing cooperation in the sectors of industry, mining, agriculture, tourism, education, and healthcare.

The strengthening of the partnership with the EU in financing green economy, digital economy, technologies, as well as creating technoparks, and the introduction of e-trading in Tajikistan was noted to be beneficial to both sides.

While discussing the global issues related to water and climate change, the two sides touched upon strengthening security and stability in Central Asian nations, and touched upon the situation in Afghanistan. They emphasised the importance of the protection of state border within the implementation of the BOMCA and KADAP programs.

The EU side noted that it considers Tajikistan an important partner in dealing with the Afghanistan issue, and will continue to implement useful cooperation in solving the issue of this neighboring country, in particular, for strengthening the Tajik-Afghan border.