DUSHANBE, May 16, 2011, Asia-Plus -- Ambassador Marc Grossman, the United States Special Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, is expected to pay a short visit to Tajikistan on May 20, the source at the Tajik government said.

According to him, issues related to regional security as well as achievement of peace and accord in Afghanistan will be a major topic of the U.S. envoy’s discussions with high-ranking Tajik state officials.  During his stay in Dushanbe, Ambassador Grossman is also scheduled to hold talks President Emomali Rahmon.

The source added it could not be ruled out that Gorssman would also meet with representatives of political parties and civil society of Tajikistan.  

Ambassador Grossman was named Special Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan by President Obama on February 14, 2011, replacing the late Richard Holbrooke.  He served as United States Ambassador to Turkey, Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs, and Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs.