Pakistan, Tajikistan boost collaboration across key sectors

May 30, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan and Tajikistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen strategic cooperation and deepen bilateral relations across multiple sectors, with a renewed focus on trade, regional connectivity, energy, defence, and peace efforts.

They reaffirmed this resolve during a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and President Emomali Rahmon in Dushanbe, held on the sidelines of the International High-Level Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation.

The leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral ties, expressing satisfaction over the progress made and agreeing to pursue new avenues of cooperation, particularly in investment, education, cultural exchange, information technology, and people-to-people linkages.

Both sides emphasized the importance of CASA-1000 as a key project for regional energy integration.

The Prime Minister assured Pakistan’s full support for its early operationalization, welcoming the CASA-1000 Inter-Governmental Council meeting held in Dushanbe on May 15, 2025.

In the economic domain, they highlighted the need to unlock the untapped potential in bilateral trade.

The two leaders recalled the decisions of the 7th Session of the Pakistan-Tajikistan Joint Commission on Trade, Economic and Scientific Technical Cooperation held in Islamabad in December 2024, and resolved to build upon them.

They also agreed to strengthen collaboration in oil, gas, and energy through the twelve existing Joint Working Groups.

Defence and security cooperation was noted as a growing area, with both leaders pledging to enhance efforts in counter-terrorism, cross-border crime, and drug and human trafficking.

They shared views on regional and international developments, underlining the significance of peace and stability for shared prosperity.

Discussing the regional security situation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif briefed President Rahmon on developments in South Asia, particularly condemning India’s actions since May 7 as violations of international law and the UN Charter.

He stressed the need for international accountability and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to defending its sovereignty while seeking peace.

The Prime Minister also emphasized the centrality of resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN Security Council resolutions to achieve lasting peace in the region.

President Rahmon expressed concern over the recent tensions in South Asia and praised Prime Minister Sharif’s leadership in navigating regional challenges.

He reaffirmed Tajikistan’s intent to expand cooperation in science, technology, hydropower, agriculture, industry, and tourism, describing Pakistan as a trusted partner.

Recalling the signing of the Strategic Partnership Agreement during the Prime Minister’s previous visit in July last year, both leaders reiterated the importance of their shared history, culture, and geography in strengthening fraternal ties.

The Tajik President lauded Pakistan’s support for water diplomacy and was thanked by the Prime Minister for Tajikistan’s successful hosting of global environmental conferences, including the one on glacier preservation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended an invitation to President Emomali Rahmon to visit Islamabad to further deepen the multifaceted partnership. President Rahmon hosted a special reception in the Prime Minister’s honor.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was accompanied by a high-level delegation including Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant Syed Tariq Fatemi, and senior officials.

Upon arrival, he was warmly received by Prime Minister Kohir Rasulzoda and welcomed at Qasr-e-Millat by President Rahmon.

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