The European Union and Tajikistan have initialled an Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), marking a milestone in strengthening bilateral ties and expanding long-term cooperation.
This new EPCA sets out a modern and ambitious framework for relations between the EU and Tajikistan. It reflects their shared values and common interests across a broad range of areas including political dialogue, rule of law, trade, sustainable development, connectivity, digital transformation, climate action, and security.
Once signed, the EPCA will replace the existing Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) that has been in force since 2010. The updated agreement is designed to support Tajikistan’s ongoing reform efforts and align with the EU’s strategic priorities in Central Asia, as outlined in the 2019 EU–Central Asia Strategy.
Key areas of enhanced cooperation under the EPCA include good governance, judicial reform, and human rights; sustainable economic development and regional trade integration; energy efficiency and the green transition; digital policies, e-governance, and innovation; education, skills development, and youth mobility; connectivity and infrastructure projects aligned with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy; and cooperation on regional stability, border management, and security.
The negotiations for the EPCA began in February 2023. The initialling of the agreement confirms the successful conclusion of talks and paves the way for formal signing and ratification by both sides in the near future.
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