DUSHANBE, November 20, 2009, Asia-Plus — President Emomali Rahmon yesterday received Mr. Miroslav Jenca, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and the Head of the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia (UNRCCA).
According to presidential press service, the two discussed problems connected with artificially created barriers that impede development of regional cooperation in Central Asia. Effects of Uzbekistan’s withdrawal from the unified Central Asian power grid and current electricity supply problems in Tajikistan were among major topics of the talks.
The sides also discussed issues related to use of water-and-energy resources in the region, transit of commodities and services, landmine-related challenges and the current situation in Afghanistan, the press service said.
In the meantime, speaking to reporters after a meeting with President Rahmon, Mr. Jenca noted that UNRCCA was tasked with assisting the governments of Central Asia’s in building capacities to peacefully prevent conflict, in facilitating dialogue, and in catalyzing international support behind projects and initiatives.
“The Center was established to promote expansion of regional cooperation,” said Jenca, “I think it is very important for the region and the Center is working in this direction.”
The UNRCCA head pointed to the necessity of taking into consideration interests of all countries of the region.
He also reminded that a large event on power, water and agricultural problems was recently held in Dushanbe. During the meeting, that brought together participants included representatives of all the Central Asians countries, international organizations active in the region and international financial institutions, it was noted that the United Nations and its agencies jointly with donors were providing significant assistance and ready to continue work in that direction.
