DUSHANBE , January 20, Asia-Plus - The suspension of the BBC’s services in Tajikistan on FM frequencies by the Tajik authorities has not been politically motivated.

Igor Sattorov, head of the Tajik MFA information Department, remarked this speaking to journalists in Dushanbe yesterday.  The MFA spokesman told reporters that it was simply a procedural question.  “We are working with the Justice Ministry and the BBC to resolve this,” Sattorov said. 

“It is to be noted that last year amendments were made to the Tajik laws on media and licensing procedures,” said Sattorov, “The BBC should acquire a media license in accordance with these laws.”  “As soon as the issue is resolved the BBC’s local FM radio services will be resumed,” Sattorov said.  “However, the Tajik Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently examining the situation and considering competence of the Committee for TV and Radio-broadcasting and the Justice Ministry to require the BBC to register with the Justice Ministry,” said Sattorov, “As soon as these issues are cleared we will promote expedient acquirement by the BBC of the broadcasting license.”