DUSHANBE, April 25, Asia-Plus - United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour is expected to arrive in Tajikistan today for a working visit, which is part of a four-country tour to Central Asia. 

According to the United Nations Tajik Office of Peace-Building (UNTOP), during her visit, the High Commissioner will meet with President Emomali Rahmon, Foreign Minister Hamrokhon Zarifi, Prosecutor General Bobojon Bobokhonov, Interior Minister Mahmadnazar Solehov and Justice Minister Bakhtiyor Khudoyorov. 

She will also hold discussions with representatives from Tajik political parties, civil society groups and international organizations active in Tajikistan.

A source at the UNTOP said that Ms. Arbour will give a news conference in Dushanbe on April 27, at 5:30 p.m.   

The High Commissioner''s visit to Tajikistan aims at increasing her Office''s engagement in the region.  The visit will allow her to discuss future cooperation and issues of mutual concern with Tajik Government and other key actors in the country.  She hopes that the visit will enhance dialogue and technical cooperation between her Office and the Government and people of Tajikistan.

The first leg of her tour of Central Asia was visit to Kyrgyzstan on April 24-25.  The High Commissioner will also be visiting Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.