On November 21, Dushanbe hosted another round of political consultations between the foreign ministries of Tajikistan and Germany. The meeting was co-chaired by Ismatullo Nasreddin, First Deputy Foreign Minister of Tajikistan, and Konrad Arz von Straussenburg, Director for Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Eastern Europe at Germany's Federal Foreign Office.
During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on the current state and prospects for further expansion of bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including politics, economy, trade, investment, energy, industry, migration, education, science and culture.
Following the consultations, Mr. Arz von Straussenburg responded to questions from Asia-Plus.
On the development of Tajik-German relations
Q. How would you assess the current state of Tajik-German relations?
A. We greatly value the longstanding and friendly diplomatic relations between Germany and Tajikistan. In September of last year, a summit took place involving Federal Chancellor Scholz and the leaders of Central Asian nations. During the summit, President Emomali Rahmon held discussions with both Chancellor Scholz and Federal President Steinmeier. Additionally, the Strategic Regional Partnership was established—the first of its kind.
Building on this foundation, we are working with our Central Asian partners to further define this partnership. In September of this year, Chancellor Scholz visited Astana to attend the second summit. There, he once again met with all five heads of state, including holding individual talks with President Rahmon. This active engagement highlights Germany's focus on Central Asia as a whole and Tajikistan in particular.
We collaborate in many areas, such as combating climate change and promoting renewable energy under the German government's Green Central Asia initiative, as well as in security matters. On a societal level, we appreciate the interest in learning the German language, studying in German universities, and working in Germany.
Key meetings and discussions
Q. Who did you meet with during your visit, and what topics were discussed?
A. My visit was prompted by the political consultations between the foreign ministries of Germany and Tajikistan. These consultations are an annual forum where we discuss current developments in our bilateral relations and plans for the coming year. We value our connections across all areas of cooperation.
We also discussed water resources, an issue of importance not only to Tajikistan but to the entire region. Tajikistan's active engagement in international forums on climate and water resources is commendable. These topics were also discussed with representatives of international organizations active in this field.
I visited the Nurek Hydropower Plant, which is undergoing rehabilitation with the participation of the German-Austrian company Andritz Hydro. We hope this will contribute to Tajikistan's energy security.
Additionally, I met with representatives of local civil society as part of the People to People initiative. This is another component of our Strategic Regional Partnership.
I firmly believe that the rule of law and effective protection of citizens' rights and freedoms are the best guarantees for the sustainable development of a strong, free, and prosperous society.
Tajikistan’s unique position
Q. Given that Russia, China, and Iran are strategic partners for Tajikistan, how does this impact bilateral cooperation between Germany and Tajikistan, especially in the context of the West's confrontation with these countries?
A. We respect Tajikistan's multi-vector foreign policy and recognize its geographical position.
Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine, which violates international law, marks a turning point not just for Germany and the EU but for the world. Its effects are felt globally, particularly in countries neighboring Russia.
We understand that Tajikistan is in a unique situation, with economic ties and security concerns playing a significant role. We are, however, concerned about the recent treatment of Tajik migrants in Russia.
China is also a major neighbor of Tajikistan. The country's multi-vector policy includes economic and security cooperation with China, which remains significant for Germany as well, particularly on global issues like climate protection.
At the same time, we aim to reduce dependency on China in strategically important areas and strengthen the resilience of our economy. It is important to discuss these issues with partners like Tajikistan.
Economic cooperation
Q. Germany is Tajikistan's second-largest European trade partner after Switzerland, yet trade accounts for only 2.2% of Tajikistan’s total trade volume. Is there potential to significantly increase this figure?
A. Bilateral economic relations have developed well over the past few years, but there is room for expansion.
In September 2023, a German economic delegation, led by the Eastern Committee of German Economy, visited Tajikistan to explore potential opportunities. Tajikistan's critical raw materials could be an area for further exploration.
Investment challenges
Q. Germany ranks 16th globally in terms of accumulated investments in Tajikistan, despite being the largest economy in Europe. Why is this, and what needs to change?
A. German companies make investment decisions in Tajikistan based on economic considerations. Legal security and regulatory conditions are crucial factors.
According to the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index, Tajikistan’s conditions have improved. This progress needs to be built upon.
Future prospects
Q. How do you see the future of Tajik-German cooperation?
A. We will continue our reliable and constructive collaboration both bilaterally and regionally under the Strategic Regional Partnership.
Germany's awareness of its relationships with Central Asian partners has grown in light of Russia’s aggressive war against Ukraine. Tajikistan, with its long land border with Afghanistan, is a key security partner, as well as a partner in combating climate change. This will remain a priority for us.
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