OSCE and Tajikistan outline priorities for co-operation in 2017

DUSHANBE, 8 June 2016 – The annual forum of the OSCE–Tajikistan Task Force took place today in Dushanbe, with high-ranking officials from the OSCE and the Tajik government as well as representatives of civil society highlighting their recent major achievements and identifying priorities for national and regional co-operation in 2017.

The meeting explored opportunities to intensify the OSCE’s assistance to Tajikistan in fostering comprehensive security in the politico-military, economic and environment and human dimensions. The participants particularly focused on cross-dimensional issues, such as radicalization and migration.

Muzaffar Huseynzoda, Tajikistan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, underlined the importance of the Task Force meeting, which he characterized as a good tradition, stating that the meeting plays a significant role in the process of determining priorities of co-operation between Tajikistan and the OSCE as well as planning the activities of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan. He stressed that this tool for co-operation and dialogue between the host country and the Organization is a very good example of co-operation.

Markus Mueller, Head of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan, said: “We will think together with our counterparts of how we can improve our programmes. The OSCE will respond to changes in the needs of our partners, from civil society to government bodies. Overall we need to adjust our programmes to an ever changing environment. The OSCE is also developing a mid-term strategy and exploring areas for enhancing the dialogue with the authorities on issues such as human rights.”

The annual forum has been meeting in this format since 2007.