DUSHANBE, March 7, 2013, Asia-Plus -- The U.S. Embassy’s Office of Military Cooperation issued more than $ 460,000 worth of communications technology and individual equipment consisting of personal protective gear, cold weather clothing, and tactical gear to the Border Guard Detachment in the Shouroobod district on March 6.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe, the equipment will enhance the capability of the Tajik Border Guard Mobile Special Groups to secure Tajikistan’s borders against drug traffickers and extremist elements.  Defense Attaché LTC John Fravel and Counter Narcotics Program Manager Artur Taryan reportedly represented the U.S. Embassy at the event.

LTC Fravel stated, “The United States Government shares the goal of the Government of Tajikistan to combat the threat of contraband and drug trafficking.  This donation will significantly improve the Border Guards Mobile Special Forces’ efforts to counter violent criminal elements, while enhancing the safety of the officers who risk their lives to improve Tajikistan''s security.”

This donation is part of the many assistance projects the U.S. Embassy implements in Tajikistan. Since 1992, the American people have provided more than $1 billion dollars in assistance programs that support the economic growth, democratic institutions, and health care, education, and security systems of Tajikistan.