Pakistan and Tajikistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their longstanding fraternal ties during a recent meeting between Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon in Dushanbe. The meeting, held today, focused on various aspects of bilateral cooperation and marked significant diplomatic developments.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and President Emomali Rahmon engaged in comprehensive discussions covering trade, economy, investment, connectivity, culture, education, science and technology, defense, humanitarian assistance, parliamentary exchanges, and people-to-people contacts. Both leaders signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement, elevating bilateral relations to a strategic level. This upgrade is expected to foster new opportunities and deepen multifaceted cooperation between the two nations.
To diversify their relations further, Pakistan and Tajikistan inked several Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) spanning aviation, diplomacy, education, sports, industrial cooperation, tourism, and enhancing people-to-people linkages. These agreements aim to strengthen collaboration in key sectors, promoting mutual prosperity and cultural exchange.
During their meeting, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif highlighted the human rights situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), expressing concerns over attempts to alter its demographic structure. President Emomali Rahmon reiterated Tajikistan’s support for Pakistan’s stance on these issues.
Both leaders also voiced serious concerns regarding the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning Israeli actions that have led to the loss of thousands of innocent lives, including women and children. They urged the international community to intensify efforts towards ending the violence and restoring peace in the region.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s two-day official visit to Tajikistan, at the invitation of President Emomali Rahmon, underscores the commitment to regular high-level engagements between the two countries. The visit included a warm reception by Prime Minister of Tajikistan Qohir Rasulzoda upon arrival at Dushanbe International Airport. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif paid homage to Tajikistan’s heritage and solidarity by laying a floral wreath at the Ismoili Somoni Statue, a national monument.
This visit marks a significant milestone in Pakistan-Tajikistan relations, reinforcing their shared values and strategic interests. It signifies a concerted effort to elevate bilateral cooperation across various domains and strengthen regional stability.
