DUSHANBE, October 2, 2009, Asia-Plus — A delegation of Royal College of Defense Studies (RCDS) of the United Kingdom which includes professional military and civilian personnel from Ethiopia, Italy, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Serbia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States will arrive in Dushanbe on October 4 for a three-day study visit, according to the British Embassy in Dushanbe.
The aim of the RCDS Overseas Study Tour is to examine, at first hand and from a strategic perspective, the current position and future prospects for the preservation and enhancement of the stability, security and prosperity in the region. Participants will also familiarize themselves with the political, economic and social situation of the country. It should be noted that the purpose of the study tour is to study from the international security viewpoint, not to make a military assessment of the country.
During their visit to Tajikistan the RCDS delegation will hold discussions with high level Government officials, academics and representatives of international organizations. They are due to meet with Foreign Minister Hamrokhon Zarifi; senior representatives of the Ministry of Defense; members of the Center for Strategic Studies under the President of Tajikistan; the Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE); as well as with international donors active in Tajikistan. Also, the delegation will visit the historic town of Hissar.
Tajikistan has been selected this year as part of the RCDS study program, reflecting the raised strategic and political profile of the country. The College program also includes visits to New York and Washington, various regions of the UK, and to Brussels (Headquarters of NATO and the European Commission). The course concludes in October with course members each spending 3-4 weeks visiting a region of the world. This year the college will visit Africa, Eurasia, Far East, Mediterranean and North Africa, Middle and Near East, South Asia and South America.
The British Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Tajikistan, Mr. Trevor Moore, will accompany the RCDS delegation during their visit.
The Royal College of Defense Studies is an internationally renowned institution and component of the United Kingdom’s (UK) National Defense Academy. Its mission is to prepare senior officers and officials of the UK and other countries and future leaders from the private and public sectors for high responsibilities in their respective organizations by developing their analytical powers, knowledge of defense and international security, and strategic vision. It is also committed to achieving its mission in an invigorating environment, which inspires study, stimulates thought and stirs debate; in which the views of others are respected and lasting friendship made; and which, through contact and exchange of information and ideas amongst Members from many nations and different backgrounds, provides a unique and enriching experience for all.
