DUSHANBE, January 15, 2014, Asia-Plus – Russian First Deputy Prime Minister, Igor Shuvalov, heading a Russian government delegation is expected to arrive in Dushanbe on January 24.

While in Dushanbe, Shuvalov will hold talks with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon to discuss state and prospects of further expansion of bilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and the Russian Federation, a source said.

During the visit of the Russian delegation, the sides will exchange ratification notes on government-to-government agreements between Tajikistan and Russia on the extension of Russia’s lease on military base in Tajikistan, duty-free Russian oil product deliveries to Tajikistan, and labor cooperation.

Born on January 4, 1967, Igor Shuvalov is a Russian lawyer and politician.  He currently serves as First Deputy Prime Minister in Dmitry Medvedev''s Cabinet, after being re-appointed to the post on May 21, 2012.  Previously, he served in the same capacity in Vladimir Putin''s Second Cabinet.  As First Deputy Prime Minister, he is the most senior member of the cabinet besides the Prime Minister and is responsible for federal budget and economic policies.