Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon stressed that achieving peace and stability in Afghanistan is in the collective interest of all Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states. This statement came following his address at the SCO summit in Astana, as reported by the President's press service.
In his address, Rahmon emphasized that "the common interests of the SCO member states lie in the speedy establishment of peace, stability, and security in Afghanistan."
He advocated for continued efforts to assist the Afghan people, whom he referred to as "brotherly."
Rahmon also reflected on the origins of the SCO, stating, "23 years ago, when creating the SCO, the heads of the founding states focused on the problems of Central Asia and designated this region as the 'core of the SCO.'"
He highlighted the need for a more active presence of the organization in Central Asia, a region that has garnered increased attention from external actors in recent years.
Furthermore, the President of Tajikistan underscored the SCO's role as a trans-regional organization with the world's largest population and significant economic potential. He stressed that the organization must maintain its status as an important participant in international relations and adapt to the changing global landscape to remain relevant.
Before the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021, Tajikistan maintained stable relations with the Afghan government. Diplomatic ties were established in 1992 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, leading to reciprocal embassies and consulates in major cities.
Over the years, both nations signed agreements, a $500mn energy deal in 2007 aimed at creating a power connection from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan to Afghanistan. However, the porous 1,300-km border between them posed challenges due to drug smuggling and insurgent activities.
After the Taliban's takeover, Tajikistan's relationship with Afghanistan became strained. Tajikistan refused to recognize the Taliban government, with President Emomali Rahmon criticizing their treatment of ethnic Tajiks. Tajikistan hosted numerous former Afghan government officials, politicians, and opposition figures, which irked the Taliban leadership.
In September 2023, Tajikistan reopened border markets in several districts, suggesting a potential thaw in relations, but substantive changes have been limited. Tajikistan remains the most vocal critic of the Taliban in Central Asia, advocating for an inclusive government that represents all Afghan ethnicities.
Despite these political tensions, economic and commercial ties between Tajikistan and Afghanistan have largely persisted. Tajikistan supplies electricity to significant parts of Afghanistan. Yet, Tajikistan's stance remains firm compared to its neighbors in Central Asia, many of whom have chosen a policy of engagement with the Taliban-led government.
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