Currently, political relations between the EU and Tajikistan are guided by the bilateral 'Partnership and Cooperation Agreement' and the new EU Strategy on Central Asia “New Opportunities for a Stronger Partnership”, adopted in 2019. Tajikistan has formally requested to upgrade the current PCA in November 2019 through negotiation of an Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA - following KAZ, KYR, UZB example). EEAS and TRADE (co-chef de file) are working for launching the Inter Service Consultation (ISC), in view of obtaining a possible negotiating mandate in 2021.
The EU Special Representative for Central Asia, Ambassador Peter Burian, visited Tajikistan in 2019 and emphasised the importance of the bilateral relations. He promised a continuation of EU support, but stressed the need for more social and economic reforms in Tajikistan.
Strategic documents
The Partnership and Cooperation Agreement came into force on 1 January 2010 after ratification by all EU countries. It is contributing to the enhancement of bilateral relations and heightening the EU profile in Tajikistan, as it sets out the parameters for increased political dialogue and cooperation and also aims at promoting bilateral trade and investments.
The new EU Strategy on Central Asia aims to forge a stronger, modern and non-exclusive partnership with the countries of Central Asia so that the region develops as a sustainable, more resilient, prosperous, and closely interconnected economic and political space.
The EU and Central Asian countries have confirmed their commitment to the new EU Strategy towards Central Asia, and strategy implementation is well under way. The Cooperation Council of the EU and Tajikistan holds annual high-level discussions between the EU and Tajikistan.
Closer to the Tajik people
In order to bring the EU closer to the Tajik people, the EU organises European Week each year. This is an opportunity to introduce European cultures to Tajikistan and to outline the work of the EU Delegation. Furthermore, many Tajik students have already been successful in applying for the Erasmus Plus programme, which allows them to study in the EU.