Today, the European Union has committed €30 million in budget support to the Republic of Tajikistan to advance vocational education and training. It will empower local youth, women and returnee migrants, while also promoting employment in critical sectors such as agriculture, energy and the emerging green and digital industries. Commissioner Urpilainen and Tajikistan Foreign Minister Muhriddin signed the declaration at the Global Gateway Forum that takes place in Brussels.
European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, said: “Equipping young people with future-proof skills is crucial to increasing employment. The EU budget support to Tajikistan contributes to reducing inequalities and drives local economic growth. By fostering the green and digital sectors, we are not only creating opportunities for youth but also promoting a more sustainable and self-sufficient Tajikistan, in line with the EU Global Gateway investment strategy.”
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan, Sirojiddin Muhriddin, said: “The European Union is a reliable development partner of the Republic of Tajikistan. In 30 years of cooperation, the EU has effectively fulfilled its mission, supporting the country’s sovereignty, independence and development path. The EU is making a feasible contribution to achieving substantial economic growth, reducing poverty and improving social and economic conditions in Tajikistan. Tajikistan and the EU are coherent in their approach towards significant emphasis on the development of youth through various policies and initiatives, including the Global Gateway strategy. EU budget support to Tajikistan for boosting employment is driven by the recognition that investing in the young generation is essential to achieving long-term economic growth, social cohesion and sustainable development. In this way, Tajikistan will be able to accelerate its transition to a green and digital economy.”
In addition to boosting education, employment and reducing inequalities, the budget support programme also contributes to sustainability by introducing 'greening' elements into technical and vocational education and training. It means the development of corresponding standards and curricula, as well as the introduction of professions related to the green economy and renewable energy sources. Overall, this EU budget support represents a significant step toward Tajikistan’s strategic autonomy, reducing dependencies, and fostering sustainable development in the region through investments.
Background
EU-Tajikistan cooperation
The European Union and Tajikistan work together to improve the living standards of the local population through sustainable and inclusive development. The partnership focuses on three flagship areas, in line with the Tajikistan National Development Strategy, the EU Multiannual Indicative Programme for Tajikistan and the Global Gateway strategy.
First, an inclusive green and digital economy to boost agriculture as a driver for green economic growth and employment by making use of digital technologies and solutions.
Second, human development to support Tajikistan in ensuring the provision of quality essential services for all in the education and health sectors.
Third, natural resource management supports a sustainable and resilient economy to improve access to drinking water supply and sanitation, as well as energy, particularly in rural areas.
A gender sensitive approach to all actions and the inclusion of digitalisation will ensure that the EU-Tajikistan partnership has a deeper impact on the country’s long-term development and prosperity.
The Global Gateway Forum
The Global Gateway Forum brings together an assembly of government representatives from the European Union and across the globe, alongside key stakeholders from the private sector, civil society, thought leaders, financial institutions, and international organisations to promote global investment in infrastructure.
During this landmark occasion, a series of strategic investment announcements and agreements with partner countries are being presented, marking a significant leap towards the implementation of the Global Gateway strategy. These announcements not only underscore the tangible worldwide impact of Global Gateway but also provide a platform for governments and businesses to engage in critical discussions surrounding its priorities.
The Global Gateway Forum highlights a collective commitment to fostering sustainable growth and resilience worldwide through a Team Europe approach.
Global Gateway
Global Gateway represents the European Union's effort reduce the worldwide investment disparity and boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport sectors, and to strengthen health, education and research systems. It provides sustainable investment opportunities to enhance the prosperity and security of our global partners and Europe alike.
The Global Gateway strategy embodies a collaborative approach that brings together the European Union, EU Member States, and European development finance institutions. Together, we aim to mobilize up to €300 billion in public and private investments from 2021 to 2027, creating essential links rather than dependencies, and closing the global investment gap.
Team Europe stands out with a compelling proposition for democratic partner nations, focusing on sustainability across social, environmental, and financial aspects, promoting long-term drivers of growth through a comprehensive 360-degree approach, encompassing both hard and soft infrastructure, and reinforcing the resilience of nations seeking strategic autonomy.
More Information
Details
- Publication date
- 25 October 2023
- Author
- Directorate-General for International Partnerships
- Location
- Brussels