The European Union and Tajikistan have taken a significant step toward deepening bilateral cooperation by initialing the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) on July 18. In an exclusive interview with Asia-Plus, Luc Devigne, Deputy Managing Director of the European External Action Service (EEAS) for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, shared details about the agreement and the EU’s priorities in the region.

The EPCA is designed to replace the outdated 2004 agreement, aligning the EU-Tajikistan partnership with today’s political and economic realities. According to Devigne, the new deal will provide a modern framework for cooperation, not only in trade but also in areas such as human rights, sustainable development, education, energy, and digital transformation.

“It’s a positive step forward,” Devigne said. “The old agreement dates back to the early 2000s, and since then both the EU and Tajikistan have evolved significantly. The EU has expanded and shifted its foreign policy focus toward inclusivity. Tajikistan, too, has seen major developments, especially in its regional relations.”

While regional progress has been noted, Devigne acknowledged that the situation along Tajikistan’s southern border with Afghanistan remains complex. Still, the EU is committed to supporting Tajikistan’s future development across multiple areas.

Expanding priorities beyond trade

Devigne emphasized that the EU remains focused on promoting rule of law, good governance, judicial reform, and human rights — long-standing priorities in its foreign policy. However, the scope of cooperation now extends far beyond traditional sectors.

“We are expanding cooperation to education, healthcare, and digitalization. Over the past five years, EU funding has enabled 500 Tajik students to study in Europe. We're also supporting digital access projects, including those using satellite technologies,” he noted.

The EU is also playing a key role in Tajikistan’s energy transformation, including hydroelectric projects such as Roghun and Zarafshon. “We have a major regional initiative, Team Europe, worth €700 million, focusing on water, energy, and climate in Central Asia, with Tajikistan as an active participant,” Devigne added.

EU emphasizes values-based partnership with Tajikistan

In discussing Tajikistan’s close economic ties with Russia and China, Devigne affirmed that the European Union respects the country’s historical and geographic connections.

“We understand Tajikistan’s long-standing ties with these countries,” he said. “The EU has no objection to Tajikistan maintaining these relationships. Our only concern is the circumvention of EU sanctions against Russia through third countries. So far, we have not observed this happening in Tajikistan, although it is an issue elsewhere in the region.”

Devigne also highlighted that Tajikistan’s non-membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) differentiates it from some of its neighbors. When it comes to cooperation with China, he emphasized the EU’s distinct approach.

“The EU puts strong emphasis on the sustainability of projects and their benefits for local communities. We want to help Tajikistan maximize its resource potential, particularly in strategic raw materials. We have already signed agreements with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in this area and may explore the same with Tajikistan,” he said.

No immediate EU plans for labor migration programs

Given Tajikistan’s strong labor migration ties with Russia, Devigne was asked whether the EU might offer alternatives. He acknowledged recent concerns about the treatment of Tajik migrants in Russia following the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack.

“Combating terrorism is a legitimate right. But collective punishment—arresting and mistreating innocent individuals—is not acceptable,” Devigne stated.

However, he admitted that the EU is unlikely to serve as an alternative labor destination due to language and cultural differences. “As far as I know, there are currently no plans for labor migration schemes from Tajikistan to EU countries. Any such changes would depend on the internal policies of individual EU member states,” he added.

EU reinforces support for Tajikistan’s hydropower and human rights

Hydropower remains a cornerstone of EU-Tajikistan cooperation. Luc Devigne reaffirmed that the EU sees great potential in Tajikistan’s vast water resources and supports the country’s efforts to develop this sector responsibly.

“Tajikistan holds the largest water reserves in Central Asia, and hydropower, if implemented properly, is a sustainable energy solution,” he said. Devigne noted that the European Investment Bank (EIB) is currently reviewing potential financing for new hydropower projects, with a strong focus on sustainability and minimizing social impacts—particularly the relocation of local populations due to dam construction.

“We certainly support Tajikistan in this direction. While I can’t speak on behalf of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, I know they share similar views. Hydropower and energy were also discussed at the EU–Central Asia Summit held in Samarkand this past April,” he added.

Devigne confirmed that the EU will continue supporting Tajikistan not only in energy, but also in infrastructure, social development, and the promotion of sustainability principles.

GSP trade benefits and human rights conditions

Another key topic was Tajikistan’s participation in the EU’s Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP), which grants duty-free access for certain goods.

“Tajikistan currently benefits from GSP, meaning zero tariffs on selected exports with no need for reciprocal concessions. However, moving to GSP+ would require ratification and implementation of 27 international conventions on human rights, labor standards, and environmental protection,” Devigne explained.

He reiterated that the EU remains committed to advancing human rights in Tajikistan. “We engage with local human rights defenders and believe real progress in this area is essential.”

“Without freedom to criticize, there is no true praise”

In closing, Devigne acknowledged the unique security challenges Tajikistan faces, including its long border with Afghanistan and threats of extremism.

“We understand the concerns, including the risks posed by radical Islam from the south. But security must not be used as an excuse to suppress peaceful opposition or civil society,” he said. “We’re not talking about extremists—we’re referring to journalists, civil activists, and members of independent organizations.”

Devigne concluded with a quote from French writer Beaumarchais: “Without freedom to criticize, there is no true praise.” He emphasized that this principle is central not only to the EU but also to its partnerships around the world.