TAJIKISTAN’S ROLE IN ADVANCING REGIONAL AND GLOBAL COOPERATION: AN ANALYSIS OF THE SPEECH OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF TAJIKISTAN, HIS EXCELLENCY EMOMALI RAHMON, AT THE SECOND “CENTRAL ASIA–CHINA” SUMMIT
On 17 June 2025, in Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan, the Second High-Level Summit between the countries of Central Asia and the People’s Republic of China was held. The President of the Republic of Tajikistan and Leader of the Nation, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, actively participated in this important regional meeting and, in a detailed and substantive speech, presented thoughtful and constructive ideas and proposals.
- Strengthening regional political and economic dialogue
The Head of State of Tajikistan emphasized that regional summit formats can make an effective contribution to achieving common goals of sustainable development and regional stability. This process also creates a foundation for strengthening mutual understanding, political trust, and comprehensive cooperation with the People’s Republic of China. Economic cooperation was identified as the core pillar of regional relations. His Excellency Emomali Rahmon noted that the implementation of joint projects in priority sectors – green energy, industry, processing of critical minerals, agriculture, and transport and logistics – is of strategic importance for the further economic development of the countries.
- Digitalization and artificial intelligence as new drivers of development
In his speech, the Head of State highlighted the need to develop digital connectivity and introduce new technologies, including artificial intelligence. In this regard, the Leader of the Nation referred to Tajikistan’s initiative to promote the adoption of a special UN General Assembly resolution on the role of artificial intelligence in sustainable development, proposed in September 2024. This step opens new opportunities for cooperation in the digital economy and e-commerce, which play an important role for Central Asia and China in enhancing global competitiveness.
- Promoting environmental initiatives and developing a “green economy”
On environmental issues, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon once again underscored Tajikistan’s initiative – the “Dushanbe Process on Glacier Preservation.” This initiative is aimed at the protection and sustainable use of water resources, glacier preservation, and adaptation to climate change, and it can serve as an example of regional cooperation in addressing global environmental challenges. The Head of State also described the establishment of industrial clusters and the development of the green economy as important factors for attracting investment, developing local production, and increasing export potential.
- Security, social, and cultural dimensions
His Excellency Emomali Rahmon devoted special attention to key issues of food security, the harmonization of phytosanitary and veterinary standards, and strengthening the region’s logistics capacity. All of these factors play a crucial role in building a competitive and resilient regional economy. It was also noted that the development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, science and education, the role of youth, and tourism should remain at the center of attention for the countries of the region.
Overall, the Second “Central Asia-China” Summit concluded with the signing of a number of important documents, including the “Treaty of Eternal Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation” and the “Astana Declaration.” These documents create a new foundation for regional cooperation and will serve as an important factor for ensuring stability and sustainable development in Central Asia and China. The President of the People’s Republic of China also emphasized his country’s readiness to strengthen comprehensive cooperation with the countries of the region, reflecting shared interests and a common vision for regional development.
The speech of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, was based on balanced and forward-looking observations and initiatives. While safeguarding national interests, it is directed toward strengthening regional and international cooperation, sustainable development, and security. The speech demonstrates that Tajikistan is increasingly consolidating its position as an active initiator of regional diplomacy and a supporter of multilateral cooperation within Central Asia’s political and economic space.
Zulfiya Mahmanabievna Qurbonova
Doctor of Political Sciences, Professor, Deputy Director of the Research Institute for Sustainable Development and Green Economy,
International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship of Tajikistan
