Pakistan, Tajikistan seek stronger trade, energy and defence ties

Pakistan and Tajikistan have renewed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across trade, investment, energy, connectivity, defence and culture. The understanding emerged from talks in Dushanbe between Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Tajik Prime Minister Qohir Rasulzoda on Tuesday.

Dar is in Tajikistan to lead Pakistan’s delegation at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Heads of Government meeting. His discussion with Rasulzoda provided both governments with an opportunity to review their bilateral relationship alongside the wider regional issues expected to feature during the multilateral gathering.

The two sides expressed their intention to deepen economic engagement by exploring greater cooperation in trade and investment. Energy and regional connectivity were also placed prominently on the agenda, reflecting their potential importance for improving commercial links between Pakistan and Central Asia. No specific agreements, investment figures or project schedules were announced following the meeting.

Defence cooperation, cultural relations and exchanges between the people of both countries were also discussed. Dar reiterated Islamabad’s willingness to work closely with Dushanbe in support of regional peace and deeper economic integration. He additionally congratulated Tajikistan on the 35th anniversary of its independence.

The meeting extended beyond conventional diplomatic and commercial matters, with both leaders discussing climate change and water security. They emphasised the importance of cooperative efforts to address these challenges, which increasingly affect economic planning, food systems, infrastructure and disaster preparedness throughout the region.

Dar highlighted Pakistan’s experience in disaster management and identified the National Disaster Management Authority as a possible channel for practical cooperation. The proposal could allow the two countries to exchange institutional knowledge and strengthen coordination on preparedness and emergency response, although no formal programme was detailed during the talks.

The broad agenda indicates that Islamabad and Dushanbe are seeking a more diversified relationship rather than limiting cooperation to a single sector. Trade, transport links and energy collaboration could support Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen economic connections with Central Asia, while defence and disaster-management engagement would add security and resilience dimensions to the partnership.

Dar thanked the Tajik prime minister for the hospitality provided to the Pakistani delegation and praised the arrangements for the SCO meeting. Further progress will depend on whether the commitments discussed in Dushanbe are followed by detailed negotiations, implementation plans and measurable bilateral initiatives.