U.S. President Donald Trump has frozen all forms of U.S. aid to Tajikistan. Trump signed an order to close the U.S. Agency for International Development – USAID. USAID funded a number of humanitarian and other programs in Tajikistan, including efforts to combat the growing HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis epidemics. The agency closely collaborated with the Ministry […]
U.S. President Donald Trump has frozen all forms of U.S. aid to Tajikistan.
Trump signed an order to close the U.S. Agency for International Development – USAID.
USAID funded a number of humanitarian and other programs in Tajikistan, including efforts to combat the growing HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis epidemics. The agency closely collaborated with the Ministry of Health of Tajikistan.
Last week, Tajikistan’s Minister of Health and Social Protection Jamoliddin Abdullozoda stated during a press conference that the ministry is seeking new partners to finance these programs in order to continue the fight against these diseases.
The publication BNE IntelliNews notes that the Trump administration’s initiative to eliminate USAID will deal a significant blow to humanitarian and development programs in several countries around the world, but it will also open the door for increased Chinese influence in the region, as well as opportunities for the EU to allocate funding to grow its influence.
According to the publication, after the cessation of U.S. funding in Tajikistan, China will have a greater chance to use its “soft power” in the country.
The U.S. was considered the second largest donor for funding key sectors of education and healthcare in Tajikistan.
Donald Trump had promised during his election campaigns to cut government spending, specifically pledging to stop funding projects in other countries, including Tajikistan.
After sharp cuts to American aid, many government institutions may now turn to Europe and China.