Tajik president hails Russia as ‘strategic partner’

ISTANBUL

Tajik President Emomali Rahmon on Wednesday described Russia as a “major strategic partner” during talks with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in the capital Dushanbe, saying bilateral ties remain a top priority for his administration.

Rahmon said the format of the Commonwealth of Independent States heads of government meetings serves as an important platform to boost regional cooperation.

“Relations between our countries are developing dynamically,” he said.

Mishustin conveyed greetings from Russian President Vladimir Putin and said Moscow valued its close coordination with Dushanbe.

He noted that Russian-Tajik trade rose by 7% to 44 billion rubles ($489 million) in the first four months of 2025.

“We can increase our mutual deliveries and projects in machine-building, agriculture, mining, energy and many other spheres,” Mishustin said. He also highlighted the Days of Culture of Tajikistan underway in Moscow and Kazan as a sign of deepening cultural ties.

The Russian premier added that he and Tajik Prime Minister Qohir Rasulzoda are committed to fully implementing decisions agreed upon by the two countries’ leaders.

The meeting follows Rahmon’s recent official visit to Russia and participation in Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, underscoring continued high-level engagement between the allies.