Kuwait, Tajikistan approve agreement to facilitate private-sector labour recruitment
- Four-year labour agreement opens framework for Kuwait-Tajikistan workforce
Kuwait and Tajikistan have approved a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation in private-sector labour recruitment, facilitate the movement of workers between the two countries and safeguard the rights of employees in accordance with the laws of the host country.
Decree No. 176 of 2026 approves the agreement between the Government of Kuwait and the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, signed in Kuwait City on November 3, 2024. The decree stipulates that the relevant ministers shall implement its provisions, with the decree taking effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.
Under the agreement, Kuwait is represented by the Public Authority for Manpower, while Tajikistan is represented by its Ministry of Labor, Migration and Employment. The memorandum aims to strengthen cooperation in labour recruitment and workforce development, while protecting expatriate workers in the private sector under the laws and regulations of both countries.
The two sides have agreed to facilitate services related to labour cooperation and the movement and recruitment of workers, while exchanging visits, consultations, knowledge and expertise in workforce development and job creation.
The agreement also provides for defining the basic terms of employment and the rights and obligations of employers and employees in employment contracts in accordance with the legislation of the host country.
In cases of disputes between employers and employees, both sides will seek an amicable settlement under the applicable laws and regulations. If an agreement cannot be reached, the dispute will be referred to the judicial authorities.
The memorandum also allows workers from both countries to transfer their earnings to their country of permanent residence in accordance with the laws in force in both countries.
A joint working group will be established to oversee implementation, interpret the memorandum’s provisions, propose amendments when necessary and address any difficulties that may arise. It will also study employment opportunities and recommend technical cooperation, skills development and measures to provide skilled technicians across different sectors for the mutual benefit of both countries.
The working group will meet once a year, alternately in Kuwait and Tajikistan, and whenever necessary at the request of either party. The agreement will not affect obligations arising from other bilateral, regional or international agreements to which either country is a party.
Any disputes concerning its interpretation or implementation will be settled amicably through diplomatic channels. The memorandum will enter into force after both governments exchange written notifications through diplomatic channels confirming completion of their respective national legal requirements. It will remain valid for four years and will be automatically renewed for successive four-year periods unless either party gives six months’ notice of its intention to terminate it.
Any amendments will require written agreement between both parties. Termination will not affect ongoing activities already initiated unless the two sides agree otherwise.
