In recent developments that have sparked considerable debate, China is reportedly expanding its military footprint in Tajikistan, with claims of a “secret military base” surfacing from satellite imagery. Despite denials from both Dushanbe and Beijing, this development highlights China's existing military presence in Tajikistan and its broader efforts to solidify its influence in the region, an article authored by Paul Goble published in Eurasiareview noted.
On July 10, the London-based Telegraph newspaper reported that China is constructing a “secret military base” in Tajikistan, as revealed by satellite imagery. The base is believed to be intended both to curb Taliban influence in Central Asia and to extend Chinese influence in the region.
This development has garnered regional attention, though some observers argue it is not a new revelation. Western media outlets have framed it as a novel development. Both Dushanbe and Beijing have denied the existence of such a base.
Despite these denials, the real issue may be overshadowed: China has already established at least two military facilities in Tajikistan. Last year, Beijing and Dushanbe agreed to enhance their military cooperation over the next five years, positioning China as the leading foreign power in Tajikistan, alongside the ongoing Russian military presence.
China set up a radio monitoring site in Tajikistan more than a decade ago to monitor Western activities in Afghanistan. It has also been organizing a facility in the Gorno-Badakhshan region to assist Dushanbe in managing local unrest, ostensibly to prevent Taliban exploitation. Both facilities are officially under Tajikistan’s Interior Ministry, although they function as military sites under Chinese control.
China’s rationale for this narrative includes avoiding exacerbation of tensions with Tajikistan, safeguarding trade routes, and preventing potential diplomatic fallout with Moscow and Western nations. By avoiding formal acknowledgment of a military base, Beijing maintains its longstanding policy of portraying its military involvement as episodic rather than permanent.
The Chinese military presence in Tajikistan includes a small contingent at these facilities but extends beyond that. Beijing has deployed “private military companies” to protect its investments, built up to 30 airports near the Tajik border for rapid force deployment, and engaged in increasing joint military exercises and officer training with Tajikistan.
China is also employing a dual strategy to gain Tajik support: through extensive soft power initiatives and by enriching Tajik elites with shares in Chinese businesses. Consequently, Tajikistan is considered one of China’s most favorable Central Asian partners.
Russia has largely remained indifferent to China’s actions due to its preoccupation with the war in Ukraine and the diminishing significance of its own base in Tajikistan. Western nations, meanwhile, have not reacted strongly, often focusing on the formal acknowledgment of military bases rather than the broader implications of Chinese involvement.
This oversight could be a significant misjudgment. China’s ability to act discreetly allows it to exert substantial influence and control in Tajikistan, a nation on the brink of instability. As Beijing continues to consolidate its presence, it stands poised to dominate the situation more swiftly and thoroughly than anticipated.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)