ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Tajikistan on Wednesday reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, with a particular emphasis on trade, energy, and connectivity, during the 6th round of Bilateral Political Consultations (BPC) in Dushanbe.
The Pakistani delegation was led by Additional Foreign Secretary (West Asia and Afghanistan) Syed Ali Asad Gillani, while Tajikistan was represented by Deputy Foreign Minister Farrukh Sharifzoda.
The two sides reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, ranging from political and parliamentary contacts to trade, investment, defence and security, and cultural and educational exchanges. They expressed satisfaction over the steady growth of ties and highlighted the importance of regular high-level visits to sustain momentum.
On economic cooperation, the delegations explored opportunities to expand trade in textiles, logistics, agriculture, food, and pharmaceuticals. They underscored the potential of regional transport corridors and renewed their pledge to expedite the operationalization of the CASA-1000 energy project, terming it vital for regional integration and energy security.
Defence and security collaboration also came under discussion, including counter-terrorism, training programmes, and exchanges of visits. On regional and global affairs, both sides stressed the need for diplomacy, dialogue, and adherence to the UN Charter in resolving disputes, with Pakistan raising the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
The talks were described as cordial and forward-looking, with both countries agreeing to convene the next round of consultations in Islamabad in 2026.
During his stay, Additional Secretary Gillani also met senior officials from Tajikistan’s ministries of transport and economic development, as well as the director of the Centre for Advanced Training of Diplomats. He visited the Panj Free Economic Zone and the Commercial Customs Facility at Panji Payon to explore avenues for greater commercial collaboration.
