DUSHANBE, April 11, Asia-Plus — Visiting French Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Mr. Bernard Kouchner today held talks with President Emomali Rahmon.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with the Tajik head of state, Mr. Kouchner noted that he had expressed gratitude to Tajikistan for providing the Dushanbe airport and air space to French Air Force that has allowed France to play its role in the antiterrorist coalition.
He stressed that close relations tie France and Tajikistan. Mr. Kouchner pointed to the necessity of strengthening these relations, which have prospects for further development in all directions.
Mr. Kouchner noted that they had also discussed projects connected with water resources.
He said that he had proposed to hold two meetings this year: the fist meeting related to Afghanistan and fulfillment of obligations on combating extremism is expected to be held in Paris on June 12; and the second one is scheduled for September 17-18 after France takes over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The second meeting will be continuation of the meeting between the European Union and the countries of Central Asia that was held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on April 9-10.
Asked about specific economic projects, the minister noted that full completion of reconstruction of the Dushanbe airport is scheduled for the end of 2009 – the beginning of 2010. Besides, the French side intends to develop transport interchanges in order to improve access to the airport.
“As far as other projects are concerned, it is very important that investors have confidence and it is necessary to change structures for this,” Mr. Kouchner said, noting that will of both sides is necessary for that.
On prospects of French-Tajik relations after France takes over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, French FM said, “We talk to you as to equal partners.” “We may use your experience. Tajikistan is a strategic friendly partner for us. Help us help you,” Mr. Kouchner said, pointing to the necessity of more transparency and security.
Asked about relocation of French contingent to Afghanistan, the minister noted that a battalion will be sent there, bringing the total number of French military personnel in Afghanistan to some 3,000 people. According to him, to settle military conflict in Afghanistan they have to solve four issues: conducting consultations will all members of the coalition; coordinating harmonization of actions with the UN special envoy; involving Afghan civil society in order that they will also be responsible for their country; and consistency of acts with the countries of the region is necessary.
“If we behave as occupants, we will lose,” Mr. Kouchner said, underlining the importance of Russia’s role in settling the military conflict in Afghanistan.
