On February 17, the capital of Tajikistan hosted the 13th meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation. Negotiations led by Prime Ministers Kokhir Rasulzoda and Abdulla Aripov confirmed a course toward large-scale expansion of the economic partnership, NIAT Khovar reports.
Record Figures and New Ambitions
The parties recorded significant progress in trade: by the end of 2025, trade turnover between the two countries reached $718.3 million, a 22.5% increase compared to the previous year. However, the current figures are seen only as an interim step; Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have officially announced their intention to bring mutual trade to $2 billion.
Industrial Cooperation in Practice
As part of the visit, the heads of government visited major industrial sites in Dushanbe that demonstrate the region's import substitution potential:
- "Gayur-Pak": A high-tech enterprise producing up to 50 million polypropylene bags annually.
- "Gayur Korea Technology": A plant producing LED equipment with a capacity of 1.2 million units per year.
- The development of industrial cooperation was identified as an absolute priority for joint efforts in the coming years.
Meeting with the President and Allied Dialogue
The Prime Minister of Uzbekistan was also received by the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon. The Head of State praised the commission's work and emphasized that the strategic partnership and alliance between the two nations offer unique opportunities for investment cooperation.
Key Outcomes of the Talks:
- Documents: A final Protocol on the joint activities of the Intergovernmental Commission was signed.
- Sectors of Focus: Agreements were reached to deepen ties in energy, agriculture, transport, and customs regulation.
- Humanitarian Block: Mutual interest was expressed in expanding cultural exchanges.
- Preparation for High-Level Talks: The parties discussed the schedule for interstate events and meetings between the heads of state for 2026.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
February 18, 2026