Negotiations between the presidents of Russia and Tajikistan commenced on March 17, 2025, marking a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at enhancing bilateral relations. Despite officially being the first day of Tajik President Emomali Rahmon's visit, it was already his third day in Moscow, where discussions on various topics were taking place.
With the celebration of Navruz, one of Tajikistan’s prominent national holidays, approaching on March 21, Putin extended heartfelt congratulations to Rahmon and all citizens of the Central Asian republic, expressing wishes of prosperity for every family. He also acknowledged the recent electoral success of Rahmon’s People’s Democratic Party, which won the parliamentary elections held on March 2, 2025. The Russian President emphasized this victory as evidence of considerable support from the Tajik people for their President's policies.
Putin articulated hopes for the enduring strengthening of the strategic partnership between Russia and Tajikistan, particularly focusing on economic cooperation and security matters, which were key points of their discussions. The trade turnover between the two nations reached $1.5 billion in 2024, reflecting a 7.5% increase from the previous year, which Putin highlighted during their meeting. He underscored the importance of sustained investments, noting the accumulated volume of Russian investments within the Tajik economy mirrors this trade figure.
Before the talks, Rahmon paid his respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, signaling the significance of the occasion. Conversations were not limited to economic issues but also addressed security concerns, particularly since both nations are members of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). This aspect was underscored by Putin, who remarked on the necessity of collaborative security measures.
Furthering the celebration of cultural ties, the leaders announced the commencement of construction for two significant projects via video link. One is the international educational center for gifted children, which will accommodate 500 students with the ability to house 300. This center is modeled after the Sirius educational facility and is anticipated to operate by December 2026. The other project involves the construction of a new building for the State Russian Drama Theater named after Vladimir Mayakovsky, also set to open at the end of 2026.
Rahmon expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and reiterated Tajikistan’s status as a long-standing strategic partner of Russia. His remarks underlined the growing mutual rapport, with both leaders discussing pathways to continue fostering relations through formal and informal exchanges.
On March 15, prior to this meeting, both Putin and Rahmon, alongside Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, engaged over the phone with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to arrange for a gathering at the upcoming Victory Day parade on May 9, 2025, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War.
Overall, the negotiations encapsulate the mutual interests of both nations, with Rahmon and Putin leading discussions pivotal for future cooperation. The emphasis on educational and cultural developments, alongside substantial economic commitments, reflects the strategic importance both leaders place on their partnership.
This visit not only marks the fortification of existing ties but also launches new initiatives aimed at enhancing bilateral collaboration across various sectors. It signifies both leaders' commitment to not only addressing current issues but also to paving the way for future generations through education and cultural exchange.
