The European Union and Tajikistan held the 11th meeting of the Cooperation Council in Brussels on November 19, chaired by Foreign Ministers Sirojiddin Muhriddin and Constantinos Kombos, Asiaplus.tj reports.
The parties reviewed the state of bilateral relations, economic and political issues, trade, investment, energy cooperation, and regional security.
A key point of discussion was the advancement of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, initialed in Dushanbe in the summer of 2025. The document aims to expand cooperation between the EU and Tajikistan into new areas and strengthen political dialogue.
The sides exchanged views on economic and trade relations, energy security, and projects under the Global Gateway initiative, including cooperation in water management, climate issues, digitalization, transport connectivity, and critical raw materials. The EU noted progress in implementing the roadmap for developing ties with Central Asia and the upgrade of relations to a strategic partnership.
Special attention was given to the rule of law and human rights. The EU urged Dushanbe to strengthen the protection of human rights defenders, expand space for civil society, and continue efforts to prevent torture, improve prison conditions, and promote gender equality. The Union stressed that reinforcing legal institutions and democratic standards is essential for improving the investment climate and ensuring sustainable development.
The EU reaffirmed its support for reforms in Tajikistan, welcomed initiatives in energy, environmental protection, and water resources, and emphasized the importance of fulfilling commitments under the Paris Agreement.
The meeting also addressed regional and international security, the situation in Afghanistan, and Russia’s war against Ukraine. The EU called on Tajikistan to uphold international law, support Ukraine’s sovereignty, and cooperate in preventing sanctions evasion. Tajikistan’s role in advancing water diplomacy at the global level was also highlighted.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
November 20, 2025