DUSHANBE, June 1, Asia-Plus – State and prospects of Tajik-Israeli relations have been discussed at a meeting of President Emomali Rahmon with new Israeli Ambassador to Tajikistan Ehud Gol (with residence in Jerusalem), who presented credentials to the Tajik president today morning.
Speaking to journalists after a meeting with President Rahmon, Gol said that they had also discussed the present situation in Central Asia and Middle East.
He noted that although he is not accredited in Dushanbe, he will take efforts to promote expansion of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
“In the course of the talks I expressed hope that issue of opening of Tajik diplomatic mission in Israel will be considered soon,” said Gol, “Even if the mission is not located in Israel itself, it will give a new impulse to development of bilateral relations.”
Asked about priorities of economic cooperation, the diplomat said that that issue had not been discussed directly during the meeting.
Mr. Gol noted that it is not necessary to have common border and common mentality for having good relations. “Some times, it is even easier,” said Israeli envoy, “Israel, for example, does not have common border with the United States, European countries and 15 republics of the former Soviet Union, but our relations are mutually good.”
According to him, many Tajiks currently live in Israel and they have actively participated in many programs, including the education sector, and therefore relations will develop positively.
