DUSHANBE, March 13, 2013, Asia-Plus -- The presidents of Tajikistan and Austria set great expectations on a forum for representatives of business communities of Tajikistan and Austria.

Issues related to expansion of bilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and Austria in sectors like energy, light and food industries, construction and tourism were discussed at a meeting of Tajik President Emomali Rahmon with Austrian President Heinz Fischer that took place in Dushanbe Wednesday morning.

“We also discussed issues related to combating international terrorism, drug trafficking and other modern challenges as will regional security and the current situation in Afghanistan,” Rahmon told journalists at a joint briefing with Fischer.

According to him, they also discussed bilateral humanitarian cooperation.  Tajik leader sets great expectations on a forum for representatives of business communities of Tajikistan and Austria that is taking place here today afternoon.

For his part, President Fischer noted that the Austrian delegation members included representatives from the Federal Government, deputy speaker of parliament, representatives of cultural sector and journalism corps.

He noted that Europe attached significance to expansion of cooperation with Central Asia’s countries.

“Austria holds leading positions in Europe in construction of hydropower plants, production of power equipment, construction of railways and highways, as well as bridges,” said President Fischer.  “Tajikistan needs these facilities.”

Austrian president welcomed Tajikistan’s admission to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

At the same time, he stressed that supremacy of law was needed for expansion of stable and long-term cooperation.