DUSHANBE, September 1, 2010, Asia-Plus  -- Tajik Foreign Minister yesterday received visiting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Mr. Robert Blake.

According to the Tajik MFA information department, the sides discussed state and prospects of further expansion of bilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and the United States, regional security and cooperation in Central Asia.

The two also discussed the current situation in Afghanistan and international issues being of mutual interest.  The U.S. official appreciated Tajikistan’s support for reconstruction of Afghanistan’s economy.

Zarifi and Blake highly appraised the meeting that reviewed political consultations between Tajikistan and the United States.

Mr. Blake is also scheduled to hold talks with President Emomali Rahmon and meet with representatives of Tajik civil society today, the source said.