DUSHANBE, February 5, 2015, Asia-Plus -- The European External Action Service Head of Central Asian Divisions Mr. Toivo Klaar was on official visit to Tajikistan for 02-05 February 2015.

According to the Delegation of the European Union to Tajikistan, this is the first visit of Mr. Klaar since his appointment in his current position since mid-December 2014.

While in Dushanbe, Toivo Klaar met Mr. Said, First Deputy Prime-Minister; H.E. Aslov, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mr. Zuhurov, Speaker of the Lower House of the Parliament; H.E. Qurbonov, Minister of Finance; Mr. Nazriyev, Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade; Mr. Nazarzoda, Head of Drug Control Agency; Mr. Rahmonali, Commander of Tajik Border Troops.

Mr. Klaar had also met the representatives of civil society in the country.

During his meetings, Toivo Klaar discussed the EU-Tajikistan bilateral and multilateral cooperation for 2014-2020, security issues, including the impact of developments in Afghanistan on Central Asia, economic relations, and water, hydropower and energy issues.

Mr. Klaar confirmed the EU''s continuing support to Tajikistan in its reform process and efforts to improve social-economic conditions for the population. He recalled the importance the EU attaches to rule of law, governance, and fight against corruption.  He also highlighted the need to enhance regional cooperation especially due to ongoing environmental and energy problems.