The European Union took advantage of the sixth meeting of the EU-Tajikistan Cooperation Committee that took place in Brussels on 9 March to reiterate the importance of the freedom of expression.
According to a press release from the European External Action Service, "the EU raised the negative trend of a shrinking space for civil society in Tajikistan, emphasising that it was in the interest of long-term stability and economic development to allow the expression of diverse, democratic, political voices in the country". "Democratic reforms and fundamental rights remain an integral part of the EU's partnership with Tajikistan", the press release added (see EUROPE 11778).
The EU reaffirmed its commitment to continue development cooperation with Tajikistan, including in rural development, health and education, economic growth, private sector development and social stability. The Cooperation Committee reiterated the importance of dealing with external and internal security problems, with both parties agreeing to continue their cooperation in this domain. The EU welcomed Tajikistan's hosting of a regional conference on counterterrorism and preventing violent extremism that is to take place in Dushanbe in May 2018.
Both parties also agreed that the future EU strategy for Central Asia, which is expected next year, should promote reforms, openness to society, respect for human rights, and support for regional cooperation, as well as encourage sustainable connectivity and favour cooperation on security. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)