President Zardari Emphasizes Strategic Partnership and Regional Connectivity with Tajikistan
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday reaffirmed the strong and multifaceted relationship between Pakistan and Tajikistan, highlighting the steady growth of bilateral cooperation in trade, economic engagement, defence, and security.
The remarks were made during a meeting with Ambassador of Tajikistan to Pakistan Sharifzoda Yusuf Tohir at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the President Secretariat’s Media Wing said in a press release.
President Zardari noted that Pakistan was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Tajikistan in 1992, and emphasized that regular high-level exchanges reflect the close and brotherly ties between the two nations. He added that the Strategic Partnership Agreement provides a solid framework for deepening cooperation across areas of mutual interest.
Describing Tajikistan as a bridge to Central Asia, the President underscored the importance of improving regional connectivity, encouraging initiatives such as the revival of direct flights and enhanced road and rail links.
He also highlighted the potential for increased bilateral trade and investment, particularly in the energy sector, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the timely completion of the CASA-1000 project.
President Zardari stressed the importance of expanding cultural cooperation to strengthen people-to-people contacts and welcomed the proposal to jointly mark the 150th birth anniversary of Allama Iqbal in 2027, noting the poet’s enduring admiration in Tajikistan.
