DUSHANBE, July 1, 2011, Asia-Plus  -- The process of establishment and development of free economic zones (FEZs) in Tajikistan is going slowly, Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Umed Davlatzoda, stated at the third meeting of the Coordination Council on Free Economic Zones on July 1.

According to him, Tajikistan considers development of FEZs as an important component of strategy of development of economy and trade, attraction of investments and diversification of market.

“Introduction of modern technologies stimulates creation of new jobs and promotes reduction of poverty in the country, and thereby promotes further sustainable socioeconomic development of the country,” the deputy minister said.

Applying to representatives of international organizations and diplomatic missions attending the meeting, Davlatzoda noted that Tajikistan needed their assistance for informing companies and entrepreneurs in their countries of FEZs operating in Tajikistan.

Four FEZs – Sughd, Panj, Danghara and Ishkashim – have been established in Tajikistan, the deputy minister said, noting that 14 entities now work in the Sughd FEZ and two entities now work in the Panj FEZ, while the Danghara an Ishkashim free economic zones are still at the state of establishment.

Organized by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade with support from the OSCE Office in Tajikistan, the meeting has brought together representatives from all involved governmental agencies, diplomatic missions and international organizations active in the country as well as private sector to discuss coordination activities for 2011-2012.