Pakistan and Tajikistan reaffirmed their shared commitment to bolstering bilateral cooperation in trade, energy, agriculture, education, and industry during the seventh Pakistan-Tajikistan Joint Commission meeting held in Islamabad on December 11.
The meeting, hosted by Pakistan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, was co-chaired by Power Minister Awais Leghari and Tajik Minister for Energy and Water Resources Jum’a Daler Shofaqir.
This marked another step in the steady growth of relations between the two countries, which began when Pakistan became one of the first nations to recognize Tajikistan’s independence in 1992.
MoUs signed
Two memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and protocols were signed during the event, further strengthening bilateral ties.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa-Khatlon province partnership: The MoU aimed to enhance cooperation between the regions, fostering mutual development.
- Football federation collaboration: A partnership between the football federations of both nations to advance the sports sector.
Strategic discussions and commitments
Speaking at the event, Minister Leghari highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding ties with Tajikistan, noting the importance of removing trade barriers and establishing a Joint Coordination Committee on Transit Trade under the Tajikistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement.
“Pakistan’s strategic location offers ideal opportunities for Tajik investments and facilitates trade corridors under the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Programme,” Leghari remarked. He also emphasized the CASA-1000 energy project’s significance, expressing optimism for its swift completion, which promises mutual benefits.
Tajik Minister Shofaqir appreciated the strong bilateral ties, highlighting opportunities for collaboration in various sectors. “Tajikistan remains committed to strengthening relations, deepening economic cooperation, and unlocking new opportunities for growth,” he stated.In a one-on-one meeting, Leghari and Shofaqir strategized on resolving trade challenges and amplifying cooperation, underlining their shared vision for a prosperous partnership.
Economic insights and future plans
Economic Affairs Secretary Kazim Niaz noted that bilateral trade volume reached $23.46 million in 2022-2023, stressing the need for increased trade opportunities. He pointed to the upcoming Pak-Tajik business-to-business forum on December 13 as a key initiative for deepening economic ties.