On March 14, President Emomali Rahmon received the European Union Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Sikela.
The Tajik president’s official website says the parties discussed the state and prospects of relations between Tajikistan and the European Union, as well as current regional issues.
Emomali Rahmon, in particular, noted: “Tajikistan is making the necessary efforts to further develop and expand multilateral cooperation with the European Union and its member states.”
The meeting reportedly focused on the issues related to expanding ties in the areas of economy and trade, investment, industry, agriculture, energy, including attracting funds for the implementation of hydropower projects.
It was considered necessary to support and strengthen social spheres, including healthcare.
It was reportedly emphasized that Tajikistan is in favor of expanding “green” technologies and, within the framework of the Strategy for the Development of the "Green" Economy until 2037, intends to establish electricity production entirely from renewable sources. In this context, increasing the production of "green" energy was named one of the main ways to turn Tajikistan into a "green" country.
The discussion also focused on Tajikistan's cooperation with the European Union within the framework of the BOMCA, CADAP and LEICA programs.
Other topics of discussion included Tajikistan's initiatives to address global problems, cooperation in combating security and environmental threats, countering the effects of climate change and other issues.
Meanwhile, a statement released by the EU High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on the same day says that the European Union welcomes the signing of a final border agreement on the delimitation and demarcation of the shared border between the Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of Tajikistan.
“This is an important moment and a significant step forward based on dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes. The agreement will strengthen the resilience and stability of Central Asia.
“The European Union supports regional cooperation, a principle on which it is itself founded, and stands ready to support the implementation of the agreement, in line with its Strategy for Central Asia and the Joint Roadmap for Deepening Ties between the EU and Central Asia.”
