Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif would leave for a two-day official visit to Tajikistan on Wednesday (July 5). The visit is aimed at promoting bilateral relations, economic cooperation especially in trade and investment, energy cooperation and regional connectivity in view of the fast changing regional and global scenarios.
Tajikistan is also hosting a quadrilateral summit of CASA-1000 member states, namely Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan and Tajikistan. This project aims at developing energy corridor and land connectivity between Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan. It will also provide electricity produced in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to Afghanistan and Pakistan.
A trilateral summit between Pakistan, Afghanistan and Tajikistan is also scheduled to be held on the sidelines to discuss regional topics of mutual interest.
A high-level delegation would also accompany the premier who is visiting Tajikistan on the invitation of Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon. Pakistan and Tajikistan enjoy close and cooperative relations, which are underpinned by commonalities of history, culture and faith. These ties are characterized by mutual respect, shared perceptions and common desire to promote peace, stability and development in the region. The two countries also share common views on major regional and international issues and cooperate closely in the regional and multilateral forums.
Pakistan was among the first few countries that recognised the independence of Tajikistan, established diplomatic relations and opened a resident mission in Dushanbe.
According to an official handout, the visit to Tajikistan is reflective of the prime minister’s vision to strengthen Pakistan’s relations with neighbouring and regional countries and further increasing regional connectivity.
At Dushanbe, the leaders of the two countries will discuss bilateral relations, economic cooperation, including trade and investment, energy cooperation and regional connectivity will be the key focus of their talks. They will also exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, with particular attention on Pakistan’s policy of a peaceful neighbourhood.
A joint declaration entitled ‘Road towards strategic partnership for regional solidarity’ will be signed during the visit. A meeting of Joint Business Council (JBC) will coincide with the visit of the prime minister. The JBC will consider steps to enhance bilateral trade and commercial ties.
