Representatives of the British Embassy and officials from Tajikistan’s Ministry of Education and Science also attended the meeting.

The ministry’s press service described a memorandum of understanding as a key step in expanding the partnership. The agreement is between Tajikistan’s Ministry of Education and Science and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

It was signed in London on February 26, 2026. It provides for cooperation in science and higher education, including English for Specific Purposes.

The ministry said the agreement covers student and faculty exchanges and joint research. It also includes English-language teaching and digital technologies in education.

The two sides discussed closer ties between universities in Tajikistan and UK institutions. They discussed links with the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Cooperation with the University of Westminster and the British Council was also raised.

The participants reviewed Tajikistan’s delegation’s participation in the Education World Forum 2026 in London.

The talks also covered opening a branch or representative office of a leading UK university in Tajikistan. They discussed joint educational programs and dual degrees. Other topics included artificial intelligence in education and inclusive education.

The participants said they would continue academic exchanges and improve education quality assessment systems. They also discussed research and innovation cooperation.

Smitton said the UK was ready to continue supporting joint projects in education and scientific research, including English-language teaching. She also praised education reforms in Tajikistan.