US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken on February 28 met with Tajikistan Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin in Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, on the margins of the C5+1 Ministerial.

The US Department of State says Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Muhriddin discussed the ways in which both countries can better collaborate on economic opportunities and security cooperation through both bilateral and multilateral formats.

The Secretary reportedly reaffirmed the need for close cooperation on issues related to Afghanistan, including advocating for respect for the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan.

Secretary Blinken underscored the United States’ commitment to being a reliable partner to Tajikistan and reiterated the United States’ support for Tajikistan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, according to the US Department of State.