Qohir Rasulzoda: By 2030, trade volume will hit $2 billion

Friendly relations between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan continue to grow based on mutual respect and strategic partnership. High-level talks and mutual visits help to strengthen cooperation between the two nations.

At the invitation of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon is in the country on a state visit.

During the visit, the current status and prospects of bilateral relations are being discussed.

The Prime Minister of Tajikistan Qohir Rasulzoda shared his thoughts on the importance of this visit, particularly highlighting key areas of cooperation between the two countries.

– Bilateral relations are progressing well. We stand at the beginning of a new phase in our partnership. Trade volume has hit $1 billion, growing at 30 percent. The leaders have set a goal to increase trade to $2 billion by 2030. Both nations have the necessary resources to reach this target.

Ahead of the state visit by the President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, a working group was established, and many projects were agreed upon. About 135 major projects with a total value of $2 billion are expected to be signed. A joint action plan to boost trade has been agreed upon, with particular focus on the textile industry and the energy sector.

As is known, the leaders of the two countries have also assigned the task of building two hydropower plants. Feasibility studies are currently in progress, and negotiations with investors are ongoing.

Today, the first meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council will be held. This form of interaction between the two countries demonstrates a step toward strengthening relations to the level of an alliance.

Intergovernmental commissions are functioning effectively, and all issues under discussion are being resolved successfully through constructive dialogue and with proper consideration of both sides’ interests.

While previously about 3,000 people and 300 trucks crossed the border between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan daily, these numbers have now increased to 3 million people and 300,000 trucks, respectively, thanks to the political will of the heads of state.

Undoubtedly, the results we’ve achieved are impressive. However, we won’t settle here. Reaching our set goals remains our primary aim.

The state visit continues.

Behruz Khudoyberdiyev, UzA