Her Excellency Ms. Catherine Smithton, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to the Republic of Tajikistan, paid a visit to the International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship of Tajikistan.
The guest was welcomed by the Rector of the University, Professor Ubaydullo Asrorzoda, who held a meeting with her. During the discussion, the parties addressed key issues of cooperation, including the development of academic mobility for students and faculty, the organization of internships, professional development of academic staff, engagement of specialists to conduct lectures and training seminars, and the implementation of joint projects with British institutions and organizations.
The importance of signing a Cooperation Agreement with the UK university association NCUK was also emphasized. It was noted that the University has submitted an application to undergo international programmatic and institutional accreditation by the QAA, which is scheduled for 2026.
The Ambassador was introduced to the main directions of the University’s Development Strategy through 2040. Both sides expressed their readiness to further expand cooperation and to implement joint initiatives in stages within the framework of existing regulatory and legal documents.
Taking the opportunity, Rector Ubaydullo Asrorzoda invited Ms. Catherine Smithton to support the invitation of rectors of UK higher education institutions, as well as leaders and representatives of organizations and investors, to participate in the International Forum entitled “Cooperation for Sustainable Development: Green. Digital. Smart,” scheduled for April 14–18, 2026, with the support of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and at the initiative of the University.
During the visit, the UK Ambassador also became acquainted with the activities of the University’s structural units, the educational studio, the “Green Diplomacy” Center, language centers, the Project Management Center, the digital infrastructure, and the modern training facilities for highly qualified specialists.
At the conclusion of the meeting, as a symbol of friendship and mutual respect, the parties exchanged commemorative gifts.
