Pakistan and Tajikistan Pledge Enhanced Cooperation in Defence, Counter-Terrorism, and Regional Security

RAWALPINDI:Pakistan and Tajikistan have officially committed to strengthening their defence collaboration, with a particular focus on joint training initiatives, efforts to combat terrorism, and broader regional security strategies. This agreement was confirmed by Pakistan's military media wing on Friday.

Military Leadership Convenes at GHQ

The understanding was solidified during a significant meeting held at General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi. Colonel General Sobirzoda Emomali Abdulrahim, Tajikistan's Minister of Defence, met with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a statement outlining the details of their discussions.

During their session, both high-ranking officials engaged in deliberations on topics of mutual interest, regional stability, and avenues for bilateral defence cooperation. They reiterated their shared commitment to deepening the existing military-to-military relationship. A strong emphasis was placed on bolstering collaboration in crucial areas such as military training, counter-terrorism operations, and collective regional security endeavours. The visiting Tajik dignitary commended the exceptional professionalism of the Pakistan Army and acknowledged its vital role in contributing to peace and stability within the region.

COAS Munir, for his part, highlighted the imperative of unified efforts for fostering regional stability and prosperity. He reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering dedication to expanding its defence and security ties with Tajikistan.

President Zardari Emphasizes Strategic Partnership

Concurrently, President Asif Ali Zardari also engaged with the Tajik Defence Minister at Aiwan-e-Sadr, where he underscored the strategic nature of the partnership between the two nations. President Zardari characterized Tajikistan as a crucial link to the heart of Central Asia, while positioning Pakistan as its essential gateway to international waters. He stressed the significant potential for both states to collaboratively advance peace and stability across the region.

Welcoming the delegation, President Zardari reflected on Pakistan's enduring and multi-faceted relationship with Tajikistan, which is deeply rooted in shared historical, cultural, and linguistic bonds. He reminded that Pakistan was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Tajikistan back in 1992 and encouraged the further enhancement of political, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges.

The President also highlighted the vast untapped potential for bilateral trade and investment, particularly within the energy sector. He reaffirmed Pakistan's steadfast commitment to the timely execution of the flagship CASA-1000 project. Furthermore, President Zardari expressed his appreciation for the expanding defence cooperation, citing the successful conduct of the Dosti-II military exercise as clear evidence of the historic ties between these two brotherly nations.

Tajikistan Expresses Interest in Broader Cooperation

In response, the Tajik Defence Minister conveyed Tajikistan’s keen interest in fortifying bilateral cooperation across various sectors, thereby reinforcing the strategic partnership. The visiting delegation included prominent figures such as Ambassador Sharifzoda Yusuf Tohir, Col Rasulzoda Karim Abdurasul, Maj Gen Hakimzoda Zarif Yunusi, and Maj Gen Amonullozoda Aminjon Amonullo. Senators Sherry Rehman and Saleem Mandviwalla were also in attendance at the meeting.