Dushanbe, Tajikistan, October 12, 2016 – From October 6 to October 10, 2016, the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe, Tajikistan hosted the regional field study portion of the CAPSTONE General and Flag Officer Course from the National Defense University in Washington, D.C.
During their trip to Tajikistan, the CAPSTONE fellows met with senior-level officials from the Tajik Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Internal Affairs, as well as the National Guard. The CAPSTONE fellows also toured the American Corner in Dushanbe to learn about the English language materials and courses offered to Tajik youth. After touring the American Corner, the CAPSTONE fellows participated in a round-table discussion with Tajik students on American and Tajik life and culture. On Monday, the CAPSTONE fellows viewed U.S.-provided training to the Tajikistan Border Guard. This training partnership, which supports a vital collaborative relationship and enhances security on a critically important international border, is just one example of the many security assistance programs the U.S. Embassy runs each year.
In addition to the meetings, the CAPSTONE fellows toured the museums, markets, gardens of Dushanbe, the mountains north of the city, and the 16th century Hissor fort to better understand the unique history and culture of Tajikistan.
The CAPSTONE General and Flag Officer Course was created in 1982 for all newly selected general and flag officers. The course objective is to make these individuals more effective in planning and employing U.S. forces in joint and combined operations. To further these goals, groups of CAPSTONE fellows travel to different regions to gain a better understanding of the issues facing key partners, as well as their training and capabilities. In addition, CAPSTONE fellows participate in cultural trips and events, which help them learn the history and culture of the countries visited.
