The Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon met with King Philippe of Belgium in Brussels.

The discussion focused on prospects for expanding Tajik-Belgian relations and its multilateral ties within the European Union.

At the outset of the meeting, President Rahmon emphasized that Belgium is one of the key countries in the European continent, a friendly country and a reliable partner of Tajikistan.

The officials continued to discuss strengthening cooperation in the promising spheres of the bilateral agenda, including in energy, industry, and technology that drive economic growth.

They also discussed cooperation between the two countries as part of the regional and global agenda.

Supporting each other’s efforts in addressing global issues, Tajikistan has nominated Belgium for the position of non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2019-2020 and the Kingdom of Belgium, in turn, supported international initiatives of Tajikistan related to water issues and climate change.

They both expressed their satisfaction with the adoption of EU funded program in Central Asia and Afghanistan.

Discussing security matters, the sides exchanged views on ensuring security in Central Asian nations, and the establishment of peace and stability in Afghanistan.

They stressed that the security of Central Asian nations is directly linked to the situation in Afghanistan.

President Rahmon reiterated Tajikistan’s position regarding the necessity of restoring peace and stability in this neighboring country as soon as possible, the need to have an inclusive government, and the importance of United Nations taking action to facilitate this process.

They also expressed their desire to continue cooperation in countering terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking, and cybercrime.

At the end of the meeting, President Rahmon invited the King of Belgium His Majesty Philippe to pay an official visit to Tajikistan.