Chinese President Xi Jinping and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon pledged deeper cooperation during high-level talks in Beijing on Tuesday, underscoring growing economic and diplomatic alignment between the two nations.
The leaders discussed expanding Belt and Road Initiative projects in Central Asia, with Xi emphasizing China's commitment to 'shared development and regional stability.' Rahmon praised bilateral collaboration in infrastructure and energy, noting Tajikistan's strategic position as a gateway for China-Central Asia trade corridors.
Key discussion points included enhanced counter-terrorism coordination, agricultural technology transfers, and cultural exchange programs. Analysts highlight Tajikistan's critical role in China's Western development strategy, particularly in securing mineral resources and stabilizing security dynamics along Afghanistan's northern border.
The meeting concluded with agreements to boost Chinese investment in Tajik hydropower projects and expand direct flights between Dushanbe and Chinese cities. This follows a 37% year-on-year increase in bilateral trade during Q1 2024, driven by Chinese machinery exports and Tajik cotton imports.
