Sino-Tajik ties have reached unprecedented levels, according to the latest statements from the Chinese envoy in Dushanbe. Ambassador Ji Shumin emphasized the strategic direction set by the leaders of China and Tajikistan as a key factor in the rapid advancement of bilateral relations.
Ahead of President Xi Jinping’s upcoming visit to Tajikistan, Ambassador Ji highlighted the significant progress in Sino-Tajik relations, attributing it to the strategic leadership of both Presidents Xi and Rahmon. He expressed China’s commitment to working closely with Tajikistan to implement the agreements reached by the two leaders, with the aim of fostering mutual benefits for both nations and their people.
Describing Tajikistan as a valuable neighbor and a comprehensive strategic partner, Ambassador Ji noted the longstanding history of friendly exchanges between the two countries. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, under the strategic guidance of Presidents Xi and Rahmon, bilateral relations have entered a phase of rapid development.
In 2013, China and Tajikistan established a strategic partnership, which was further elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2017. During President Xi’s visit to Tajikistan in 2019, both sides agreed to jointly build a China-Tajikistan community of development and security. In 2023, the two leaders announced the creation of a shared future community characterized by everlasting friendship, solidarity, and mutual benefit.
Through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Tajikistan has been one of the earliest supporters and collaborators with China. This partnership has led to significant progress in areas such as infrastructure, metallurgy, and energy, contributing to Tajikistan’s economic and social development. Trade between the two countries has doubled between 2013 and 2023, with China becoming Tajikistan’s primary source of investment and a key trading partner.
Moving forward, both countries aim to deepen cooperation in various sectors, including trade, finance, tourism, transportation, communication, ecology, culture, and artificial intelligence. Efforts will be made to enhance bilateral trade, diversify trade categories, explore new trade opportunities, and strengthen cooperation under the Silk Road e-commerce framework.
As China and Tajikistan look towards a future of collaboration and innovation, Ambassador Ji emphasized the extensive scope for tangible cooperation between the two nations, highlighting promising prospects ahead.