The official welcoming ceremony of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Leader of the Nation Emomali Rahmon, who has arrived in Kazakhstan on an official visit, took place at the Akorda presidential palace. After the ceremony, Presidents Emomali Rahmon and Nursultan Nazarbayev had a meeting in narrow format and were later joined by members of their delegations.

At the beginning of the meeting, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev presented to the Leader of the Nation Emomali Rahmon the Order of Parasat for making worthy contribution to the development and expansion of friendly relations between Tajikistan and Kazakhstan.

The head of state expressed his gratitude for the warm and cordial reception accorded to them by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev.

The Leader of the Nation also expressed his sincere gratitude to the President of Kazakhstan for awarding the state decoration of the Republic of Kazakhstan – the Order of Parasat and confidently noted that this visit and its results will give efforts to create favorable conditions for expanding bilateral ties in a comprehensive manner for the benefit of peoples of both countries.

"Relations with Kazakhstan occupy a special place in our foreign policy, and we are interested in their progressive development. On marking the 25th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, we can say with satisfaction that during this period, political trust was strengthened between our countries, and we laid important legal base for our bilateral cooperation”, stressed the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon.

The Head of state Emomali Rahmon noted with a good deal of satisfaction that relying on these achievements we have struck up a strategic partnership.

It was noted that the socio-economic, political and cultural achievements of Kazakhstan were achieved thanks to the wise and far-sighted policy of Nursultan Nazarbayev.

In narrow format the two sides expressed their satisfaction on cooperation within the framework of international organizations and emphasized their commitment to initiatives of the parties for development of the interregional cooperation and ensuring security and stability in accordance with the interests of all countries of the region.

The holding of the consultative meeting of heads of state of Central Asia in Kazakhstan capital – Astana was called a new form of regional cooperation between Asian nations. President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev pointed out that Kazakhstan fully supports Global initiatives of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan about water-related problems. Dushanbe will host the High Level Conference on International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018-2028" and Kazakhstani side will take an active part in it – noted Nursultan Nazarbayev.

During the discussion of international issues, the two sides shared common position and integration between their states in resolving pressing regional and international issues within important organisations such as the UN, OSCE, CIS, CSTO and SCO.

It was also stressed that Tajikistan is ready to assume the chairmanship of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA).

The discussion with official delegations of the two countries covered a wide range of trade and economic cooperation, mining, energy, transportation, information and communication technology (ICT), finance and credit. In this context, the two sides considered necessity of strengthening activities of the Interstate Commission for Economic Cooperation between Tajikistan and Kazakhstan.

During the talks, the sides also expressed satisfaction with the increase in trade between the two countries, which last year amounted to more than $ 800 million, as well as from strengthening trade and economic ties. It was stressed that Kazakhstan in terms of commodity turnover with Tajikistan among foreign trade partners took the second place.

Particularly was emphasized the worthy contribution of Nursultan Nazarbayev on reaching mutual agreement on increasing the export of agricultural products from Tajikistan to Kazakhstan. It was believed that through this way it is possible to raise the volume of trade to the level of a billion dollars.

The two sides affirmed their readiness on holding of Exhibitions of Products, Business Forums, establishing direct trade/investment ties between regions and business entities.

The talks took place in a atmosphere of friendship and mutual understanding, on that the sides also discussed issues of development and expansion of friendly cooperation and partnership in other priority areas, in particular, in transportation tariff policy, increase in the volumes of cargo transportation via routes of Kazakhstan, and opening direct flights between the capitals of the two countries.

Taking into account the leading position of Tajikistan towards the use of water resources, the integration to ensure the environment protection and reach energy independence, it was noted that both countries should expand beneficial cooperation for the export of electricity from Tajikistan to Kazakhstan.

Tajik – Kazakh Investment Cooperation was also stressed as one of the priority areas of the two countries. It was stressed that currently more than 80 joint ventures are operating in Tajikistan, and there are similar enterprises in Kazakhstan with the participation of Tajik investors. Strengthening of cooperation will actively contribute to the creation of a favorable investment climate for the development of the economy, industry, energy, transport and agriculture sphere. The establishment of processing of agricultural products in free economic zones and their export to other countries was also seen as an advantageous step for the economy of Tajikistan and Kazakhstan.

The two sides also discussed further expansion of cooperation in the sphere of tourism, visa policy, and people – to- people contacts, healthcare, education and science.

During the discussion of international issues, special attention was paid to close cooperation in the fight against terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime. The fruitful cooperation of law enforcement agencies was in focus of the sides and they agreed to further coordinate their efforts in this regard.

The parties once again stressed their firm and unchanging position in the fight against challenges and threats, their readiness to provide active assistance for establishing of peace and stability and development of the economy of the neighboring country - Afghanistan.

Following the talks, the two presidents witnessed the signing of a number of documents.

Emomali Rahmon and Nursultan Nazarbayev adopted a Joint Declaration.

Executive protocol on the implementation of the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan on readmission;

Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the procedure for the stay of citizens of the Republic of Tajikistan on the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan and citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the territory of the Republic of Tajikistan;

Program of cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2018-2019;

Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Healthcare and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the intentions of cooperation in the social sphere;

Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Healthcare and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the intentions of cooperation in the field of labor and employment;

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between the Committee for Religious Affairs, Observing National Traditions and Rituals under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Ministry of Religious and Civil Society Affairs Republic of Kazakhstan;

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between the Agency on Public Procurement of Goods, Works and Services under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan;

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between the Committee for Tourism Development under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Kazakh Tourism National Company.

Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between the Civil Service Agency under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan and the National Anticorruption Bureau Ministry of Public service affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan in public service sphere.

Emomali Rahmon and Nursultan Nazarbayev held a joint press conference.

The Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon attended a Working (Consultative) meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asian countries.

The meeting that is taking place in the Kazakhstan capital – Astana is being attended by President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov and Chairman of the Assembly of Turkmenistan Akja Nurberdiýewa.

The Consultative Meeting agenda included Central Asian nations' cooperation in all spheres of common interests.

In his address President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon noted that Central Asia is a region with extensive untapped natural resources, transport-and-communication and human capacities. In this regard, he expressed hope that the region's potential should be used efficiently and reasonably for the benefit of the peoples of the region.

Moreover, the growing challenges and threats confronting the security of states such as terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and religious radicalism require the CA states to use all mechanisms for effective and prompt response to fight against them.

The President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon expressed his readiness to use all opportunities to strengthen cooperation between the CA nations.

The head of Tajikistan noted that the region has a huge untapped potential for fostering development of trade and economic relationships.

In this context, the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon reportedly pointed to the necessity of all appropriate measures to identify and eliminate existing barriers to ensure the free movement of people, exchange of goods, labor and capital. The effective use of the transport-and-communication and transit potential has been called beneficial for the parties.

Rational and targeted use of water and energy resources was called as one of the main directions of cooperation between the Central Asian states. It would be a key factor for prosperity and sustainable development of the region.

In this regard, President Emomali Rahmon noted that "I repeatedly in my address to the United Nations and in my annual messages to Majlisi Oli have been noting that “Tajikistan has never created and will never create water-use-related problems to its neighbors. Today, I want to stress once again that we will never leave our neighbors without water. I believe that an open dialogue, the strengthening of mutual understanding and the development of constructive cooperation would contribute to the achievement of our objectives in this area. "

The head of state expressed interest in developing regional partnership in the sphere of rational and targeted use of water and energy resources.

According to him, the existing hydropower facilities would provide a solution to the region's energy and water problems.

Emomali Rahmon also spoke for expanding contacts in the cultural, humanitarian and scientific and technical spheres.

Leader of the Nation noted that strengthening cooperation in this area should be important factor for the further spiritual and cultural rapprochement of the countries and peoples of the region.

Following his address, the President of our country expressed hope that the results of the consultative meeting will be a factor in strengthening of beneficial process to ensure decent living standards for all Central Asian citizens.

The Heads of State of Central Asian countries adopted a Joint Declaration on the celebration of the International Navruz holiday.

The President of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation Emomali Rahmon approved the emblem of the 2018 International Navruz holiday.

The emblem has a round shape; in its center is featured a globe, surrounded by the National Flag and the spring messengers – sumanak (Tajik national spring tasty food), swallows and rainbows with the inscription in Tajik and English "Navruz-2018".

The emblem may be widely used as a symbol of the International 2018 Navruz holiday by ministries and agencies, organizations and institutions, executive bodies of state authority of provinces, cities and districts, and mass media.

The Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon held talks in the Palace of Nation with President of Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who is in Tajikistan on an official visit.

Participants in the limited attendance talks discussed issues related to the development of friendly relations and multilateral cooperation. Following the talks, consultations were held with the participation of the delegations.

Before the expanded talks, the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, welcomed the President of the Kyrgyz Republic and representative delegation accompanying him to Tajikistan.

The Head of State pointed out that the first official visit of President of Kyrgyzstan to Tajikistan takes place as we mark the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. We will make sure that by joint efforts this visit can raise multilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan to a higher level.

In a limited attendance talks the two sides expressed their satisfaction with the prominent development in the Tajikistani – Kyrgyzstani relations.

In order to boost cooperation, the sides expressed their mutual desire to continue effectiveness of the existence of legal base in the field of policy, inter-parliamentary ties, trade, and economic, scientific, cultural and humanitarian cooperation would be in the interests of the peoples of both countries.

The two sides looked in detail at the further expansion of integration and partnership within international and regional organisations, such as the UN, OSCE, SCO, CIS and CSTO.

During the consultations attended by delegation members other issues being of mutual interest were discussed.

The two sides affirmed their readiness to further expand cooperation in important economic sectors such as mining and light industries, manufacturing of construction materials, joint processing of fruits and vegetable and the creation of favorable conditions for the transit of goods.

The two sides also suggested activating the activity of the Tajik - Kyrgyz intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation to deepen bilateral cooperation between the two nation’s business community representatives.

It was noted that overall volume of trade between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan is insufficient. For its growth, it was important to effectively use the existing large resources in economic cooperation in the interests of the peoples of the two states.

While addressing issues related to cross-border problems, with the aim of ensuring security and creating good and lasting neighborhood relations, the two sides suggested activating the work of Intergovernmental commission for delimitation and demarcation of common border.

The parties also discussed issues related to strengthening interstate cooperation in the field of hydropower, targeted use of water resources and joint investments in the implementation of CASA-1000 power project.

The sides exchanged useful opinions to continue cooperation within the framework of existing rules of international relations, in particular the UN General Assembly’s resolution on “International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” 2018-2028 was adopted, which was introduced by the initiative of Tajikistan. In this regard, it was stressed that the development of interstate cooperation in the field of water and energy resources should be an important factor in ensuring the economic and social development of states.

The two sides affirmed their readiness to creating transport path to entering the global market, designated border crossings and construction of regional railways and highways.

The sides also exchanged views on activating the work of the inter-parliamentary Friendship Group of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan and strengthening ties between scientific and creative circles, educational and cultural institutions. They also noted on creating conditions for cooperation in such areas as health, sports and tourism.

The sides expressed their readiness in strengthening interstate cooperation in such areas - regional security and stability, finding solutions to the problems faced by international Community, combating international terrorism and extremism, as well as other organized transnational crimes.

A number of documents were signed in the two leaders’ presence following the Tajikistani-Kyrgyzstani talks.

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon and President of Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov adopted a Joint Declaration.

-The Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic on the Rules of Stay of Citizens of the Republic of Tajikistan in the Kyrgyz Republic and Citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Republic of Tajikistan.

- The Program of Trade and Economic Cooperation between Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic.

-The Agreement on cooperation between the Ministry of Healthcare and Social Protection of population of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic in the field of health.

-The Agreement on Cooperation between the Agency for State Financial Control and Combating Corruption of the Republic of Tajikistan and the State Service for Combating Economic Crimes under the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic (financial police) "On cooperation in the field of combating financial and economic crimes".

-The Agreement on cooperation between the Committee on Television and Radio Broadcasting under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Ministry of Culture, Information and Tourism of the Kyrgyz Republic.

-The Program of Cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic for 2018-2020.

-Agreement between the Higher Attestation Commission under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Higher Attestation Commission of the Kyrgyz Republic on cooperation in the field of Certification of Scientific and Pedagogical Personnel of the Highest Qualification.

- The Plan of Cooperation between Sughd Province of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Batken Province of the Kyrgyz Republic on Neighborly Relations and Friendship for 2017-2020.

The two presidents made press statements following signing of documents on cooperation.

On 18 January 2018 in New York the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan H.E. Mr. Sirodjidin Aslov met with the UN Secretary-General H.E. Mr. Antonio Guterres.

At the meeting, the parties discussed the key issues of cooperation between Tajikistan and the United Nations, including the issues of social and economic development of the country and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The parties also discussed the International Conference on the implementation of the International Decade “Water for sustainable development, 2018-2028”, which will be held in Dushanbe in June 2018.

On 18 January 2018 the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan H.E. Mr. Sirodjidin Aslov met with the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Mr. Achim Steiner.

At the meeting the issues of cooperation of the Republic of Tajikistan with the UNDP, including implementation of the UNDP projects directed at the social and economic development of Tajikistan, as well as assistance of UNDP in implementation of sustainable development programs of Tajikistan were discussed.

The Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon met at the government residence with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov, who is in Tajikistan on a working visit.

During the substantive and productive talks the parties have expressed their willingness that the results of the meetings of the Tajik – Uzbek Intergovernmental Commissions on Trade and Economic Cooperation and Inter-State Border issues being held in the capital of Tajikistan, Dushanbe, are an important factor in strengthening friendly relations between the two neighboring countries.

It was stressed that the Tajik side attaches paramount importance to development and expansion of interstate relations with Uzbekistan. In this context, the two friendly and fraternal states shall make more efforts to reach a high level of relations in the coming years.

In a friendly atmosphere and in the spirit of mutual understanding, the two sides had in-depth exchange of views on bilateral Tajik – Uzbek cooperation, in particular the issues related to removing obstacles in the way of bilateral trade, simplifying travel regime for nationals of both countries, reducing tariffs for movement of goods, the restoration of railways, clearing landmines on Tajik-Uzbek border, reopening border crossing points (BCPs), and other issues related to inter-state border.

The head of state Emomali Rahmon underlined his willingness to strengthen intergovernmental cooperation with Uzbekistan on the rational use of water and energy resources, and added that “Tajikistan has never tried to create problems for the countries of the region on this issue, on the contrary, advocated for integrating the world and regional community in addressing water and environmental problems”.

The holding of Tajik – Uzbek Culture Days, the creation of an exhibition of products of industrial enterprises and the Tajik – Uzbek Business Forum in both countries, as well as the establishment of air transportation between Dushanbe and Tashkent were assessed the most important steps of the heads of two friendly and fraternal countries and close neighbors over the past year, which played an important role in boosting their economic, trade, cultural and humanitarian relationships.

The meeting also discussed issues of bilateral cooperation in addressing combating undesirable threats in the region and the world, including terrorism, extremism and other transnational crimes.

Both sides expressed their sincere hope that the friendly relationship between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan would be further developed in all areas of interest.

MAIN DEFENDER: from commandership to improvement. Interview with former commander Hakim Qalandarov

There is one step in the path from love to betrayal, from improvement to destruction, as well as from good to badness. Yesterday Hakim Qalandarov was a commander, and he is engaged in the improvement of the Motherland now. It is difficult to find him in Panj District.

He worked hard and was engaged in various works. We found him before the table cloth with ample food in a beautiful building. Turkey-cock, homemade chicken, trout, beef, lamb and rabbit meats were the fruits of his labors and hands. The distance from this dastarkhan with plentiful food and that yesterday's dastarkhan with only a bread is also one step. And this one step divides that river bed of the Panj River, which was plunged into the maelstrom of the war and murders and this stormy shore of the children's smile. Therefore, I ask:

Is this your home?

He smiles, looks at the people around the dastarkhan and says:

- The whole Tajikistan is my home.

Our conversation was around the landscaping works of Hakim Qalandarov and yesterday's slide fate of the Tajiks.

How did it happen to you that you left the weapons of death to the side and put your hand on the improvements?

- The tradition of patriotism requires it, he says and continues:

- The consequences of war is peace, if even it lasts for a hundred years. I was an influential commander among the Tajik opposition forces and a close man of Nuri. What, I know, probably is not enough, who knows. If that war continued, there would be no Tajiks or no Tajikistan, we would turn into Iraq and Syria. Ustod Nuri, who always consulted with me and in difficult days I was his support, repeatedly said about it.

- Then you were the witness of the conclusion of peace from the first days?

- Yes. On the day when President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, opposition leader Saidabdullah Nuri and Ahmadshahi Masud held talks in Farkhor of Afghanistan, I was among their guards.

- They say that many commanders were against the peace, were not you among them?

- I supported Ustod Nuri's position. He was inclined to peace. But there were those to whom the peace was not in their interests. Of course, this did not happen without interference from foreign countries. But at the Teheran meeting, Nuri put an end to this issue. In those days I had an intention to make a pilgrimage (Hajj). I flew to Iran with an Iranian military aircraft from Kunduz. In the plane were I and the ambassador of Iran. At that time, Iran was the only country that had an official representation in Tahore, Kabul was in the hands of the Taliban. In Tehran, I prepared my documents for the pilgrimage. Before the trip, there were two days, Nuri invited me to his flat.

- You do not go to Hajj, - he said.

- Why? - I asked.

- They invited me to "showdown", you should be next to me and there are some conversations that you have to disclose. When we go to Tajikistan, then you will go to Hajj.

I agreed. Ustod prepared me for the meeting, and told me some secrets and mysteries of the mullahs. But warned that they are diplomats, do not talk rudely. The meeting was held in the evening at the Ustod Turajonzoda's house and was attended by mullahs Himmatzoda,Mahmadrasul, Abdurahim, chairman of "Rastokhez" Tohiri Abdujabbar, chairman of society "Lali Badakhshon", one representative of the Democratic Party, chairman of the migrants of Tajikistan in Russia, journalist Oleg Panfilov, Mullah Amriddin and others. They said that Tajikistan is over, and the opposition forces are successful at the front. They offered to call everyone to jihad and talked about unification. Ustod Nuri said that "we are not unified here, how can we unite in Tajikistan?".

I raised my hand several times to speak, but they did not give me the word. I forgot about Ustod Nuri's warning, got up angrily and said that about what jihad are you talking, all Muslims, and everyone is reading namaz, you are pushing us to war, and you are feasting yourself. I appealed to the audience that "what have you done with the $ 4 million received?" "In Pakistan, in circulation", - he said. "What kind of guys?" - I asked again. Everyone was silent. This redoubled my anger. I asked them, the children and relatives of whom of you are at the front? If you want jihad, let's get a grenade and blow yourself up under the tank. Silence reigned. Oleg Panfilov angrily left the meeting. Finally, the word came to Ustod Nuri. He said that jihad has its place, we will take the people and go to Tajikistan, it’s enough to kill Tajiks, and we unite Muslims.

- Foreign countries allocated funds for the war, but the confrontation of the Tajiks ended in peace. Did this not have consequences?

- Had. Getting a lot of money has an answer too. Once Ustod Nuri secretly told me that Iran had called him to "showdown". I asked the reason, and he said that the reason is the money that were once allocated to us. I said that you gave money to the refugees and to us Mujahideen, the answer to them so. And so the poor man fell ill and I also could not see him and ask what happened with that "showdown".

- You were a mujahed and a commander. Have not you encountered this problem?

- We did not deal directly with money. Our leaders received dollars in bags openly and secretly and then partially gave to us. If there were questions, they answered. But we made peace, it was a great achievement. Once Kabiri came to me, and brought 3 thousand dollars. I said that I do not need your dirty money. I work and earn money with my own labor. But, you did not think about those who died for you. Their wives became widows and children -orphans, you could give them $ 50 and $ 100 for living. To whom of them do I give your money? You bring money now, and I do not need your money. Go, I am not with you and do not want to be with you. He told up and down. I said that there is no up and down. Do you want to be united? First, let's eliminate all the injustices and inequality, and then we will see. If you say lets fight tomorrow, for what we will fight? Do you say jihad? For what jihad? All is quiet, the mosques are well-organized, there are 5 Friday mosques in Panj, and each village has its own mosque. In the end I got up and left. I said that our guys are here in Russia. Those, who listen to me, I will not allow to join you. Because of your injustice everyone has become homeless. I personally do not support Kabiri and I will not take his words. The Panj District guys were the most influential commanders and fought more than everyone else. When he became a leader, I saw some of his injustices and separated from him.

- What kind of injustice are you talking about?

- Is it fair to forget the wives and children of the Mujahideen who fell in the worm, were wounded, believing their words? There was a time when they needed a piece of bread, but the leaders of the IRPT (Islamic Renaissance Party of Tajikistan) only thought about themselves.May Allah bless His Excellency, for that he cares for orphans, needy, homeless. He gave the land to the people so that they could work on it, they could find a piece of bread. Good wishes of orphans and street children bring him good luck. Kabiri and his accompanying delegates are engaged in very different matters. If Kabiri was a visionary, intelligent, enlightened, their party would not disintegrate. He could not keep within the state system. He began to wander, and he turned others into vagabonds. All this is a consequence of his misguided actions.

- Do you think that he and members of his party are alone, do not have support, and there is no one to intercede for them.

-No, who else?

- For example, you?

- Allah punished them. They will not become anyone later; any one will not support them. If Isupported them, they would never have hoped for KhojaHalim, but would invite me, particularly in battle, I was a military commander. In the fighting, Hoji Halim and Kabir ineither took part. I do not want to be with them, I do not want blood on our land.

- According to media the IRPT was supported by Iran.

- May be. However, IRPT support is not in the interests of Iran.

This war is a confessional war, between Iran and the Arabs nations. In difficult times, when the matterstouches the Arab and Persianchoices for whom to be, even if the Arab is a follower of Shiism, it will never take the side of the Persian. During the eight-year war between Iran and Iraq, the Shiite Arabs supported Saddam Hussein. A well-to-do Arab of that time was asked why you support the unfaithful Saddam and not the Shiite Iranians; you know what he said in response? He said that: "Saddam, he is an Arab, and the Shiite is that Iranian." In a word, I, as an Arab, will support the Arab. Look, a nation is placed above faith. We share the common language and culture with the people of Iran.

I'm not a diplomat. I am a commander and I am witnessing all these troubles that have fallen to the lot of the Tajik people and I do not want them to repeat themselves. The reliance on mazhab in Tajikistan can have unpredictable consequences. The people who are the followers of Sunnah and Jamaat will never take it. The Iranian leadership, probably, does not know the truth either. Perhaps there are forces that, by virtue of their interests and not disclosing their unreasonable calculations, present incorrect information to their leadership.

- If so, then Iran can refuse to support the IRPT?

- Of course, he can. If he wants to have good relations with Tajikistan, if we wish to have reliable support in this region, he will do so. For this, he must refuse, that is, he should not bet on religion or confession, but turn his face to language and culture; the fact of common language and culture should come to the fore. The people of Tajikistan respect Iran as a bearer of the same language, that is, Farsi-Tajik. However, with respect to the religion they adhere to, they are not respected. Iran has no other choice. I went through the school of Ahmadshah Masud and am well aware of the state of affairs in this country. If in the relations with Afghanistan Iran had chosen language and culture as its priority direction, the situation of the Tajiks in this state would not have come to this, it would be quite different. No Arab will support Iran at a difficult time.

Where the place of an Islamic party, as in Afghanistan, there can appear dozens of the same Islamic parties and these parties, with the support of other non-Islamic states, will begin to destroy each other. This struggle is a struggle for the split and destruction of Muslims. OneIslamic party is harassed for another, they sow discord, and Muslims kill Muslims. Iran is a strong state and must realize that no one respects their mazhab in Tajikistan. The only reliable means in the relations between them is language and culture.

- So why you do not say it to Iranian friends?

- Tell one case. Once moment's ustodNuri said that Iran would provide interest-free debts, and I told him if he could tell them to lend me two hundred or three hundred thousand dollars so that I could start our business. Certainty, he invited me to house with more Iranians.

Ustod said to give me some money for commercial purposes. Iranian said that to the court that if he had said it a couple of days before, they would have given everything. Ustod asked who was given the money; they answered one million dollars presented to HojiHalim. Ustod got agitated, felt uncomfortable and asked why it was HojiHalim who was the one who agreed that we would distribute fifty thousand dollars between the commanders so that they could use for the purposes of commerce and the occupation of farmers. I got angry and went to Pyanj. Nuri sent a man after me, but I did not come back. He came for me and said that the President had sent me to appoint you as commander. We come to President. He appointed me as Deputy Border Troops. He said that I was appointed yourcommander. After that, I broke all contacts with Iranians.

Iran is a big state and should have thoroughly analyzed and would have drawn conclusions from the wrongful acts of Hoji Halim. He gathered four hundred or five hundred people and armed themat his courtyard house. They were informed on war, to Romit valley, they wrapped up their weapons and come to their homes. Only fourteen people remained with HojiHalim. The people whocooperated with the government and law enforcement agencies informedon Hoji Halim's whereabouts. Now it is difficult to deceive our people.

- You know the border situation well, is there a threat to Tajikistan from ISIL?

- The threat always exists. However, I am sure that nothing like this will happen. Because, Tajikistan has chosen the right political line. The people understood the essence of the current of the Salafi movement. Got up to fight and will not allow us to turn into the second Afghanistan. The ISIL's purpose is not only Tajikistan, but also Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and even Russia. They want to destabilize all this territory right up to the Russian border. And in Afghanistan there are many Uzbek mujahideen group.

Jumaboy, Qori and Tohir had more than ten thousand armed militants in their ranks. The children who were born on that time, today have reached the ageof seventeen. The neighboring countries must be united. And we must unite for this struggle. This is our only way to ensure peace in the region.

"Faraj" Newspaper

#50(576), December 13, 2017

Tajikistan National Tourism Portal:

www.traveltajikistan.tj

The Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon attended an informal meeting of CIS heads of state in Moscow.

The discussion dealt on the present international and regional situation and the participants exchanged views on the further development of cooperation within the framework of Commonwealth.

In his delivered remarks, the President of the Republic of Tajikistan noted alarming security threats facing the world in 2017 and drew attention of his CIS counterparts to the latest developments in Afghanistan, which is one of the main themes of international and regional agendas.

It was also noted that Tajikistan comes out for further strengthening of cooperation in addressing global threats and challenges for the purpose of providing regional security.

Tajikistan will assume the rotating Commonwealth chairmanship on January 1, 2018. In this contest, the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon outlined issues related to providing security of the external borders of the CIS, including its southern borders, successive implementation of programs and a plan aiming to promote further expansion of economic and humanitarian cooperation between the CIS member states as priorities of Tajikistan’s rotating chairmanship in the CIS.

The President of the Republic of Tajikistan expressed his confidence that in the coming year the cooperation within the framework of the Commonwealth will develop constructively and wished to his counterparts well-being and new successes in implementing their plans.

Distinguished Members of Senate and the Lower Chamber of Parliament!
Dear Compatriots!

The Republic of Tajikistan, disregard of the changing political, economic and security situation in the world, has been making firm steps towards the sustainable economic development, achievement of its strategic objectives and thereby ensuring decent life for public.

However, we have lately been noticing a trend of superiority, expeditious armament and emergence of the signs of the start of a new period of “cold war” in the world.

This year also instability and conflicts continued in various parts of the world, and it was recognized as the difficult period full of contradictions for the international community. More than hundred countries of the world became subject to inhuman attack of terrorists and extremists in this period.

The reality is that the instability geography is growingly expanding and the global threat and challenges have impacted the fundamental base of the global order and system and important methods of international affairs. The continuation of this situation can clearly cause political, economic, security, human and cultural threat and danger to various parts of the world.

In the current stage, our country has been undertaking substantive measures to timely react to the global threats and challenges in the process of development of relevant internal and external capacity.

In this process, it is very important for Tajikistan to ensure better integration into the world and the regional community, international and regional organizations and to ensure a comprehensive cooperation.

We are for a fair global system free of wars and conflicts, expansion of equal and mutually beneficial cooperation and partnership between all countries of the world, ensuring global and regional security through constructive dialogue and negotiations based on the UN Charter.

The analysis of the current global situation and the trends of international affairs proves that we have chosen the right way in our pathway to expand multidimensional cooperation with all countries of the world based on respect and implementation of our national interests.

Given the current reality and with a view to ensuring sustainable security to prevent growing terrorism and extremism threats and other challenges of the contemporary time, we stand ready to strengthen broader cooperation with international and regional organizations and partner countries.

In this regard, we plan to host an International High Level Conference on joint counteraction to terrorism, extremism and violent radicalization in Dushanbe in May of 2018 in cooperation with the UN, EU, OSCE and other development partners.   

The analysis of the current global situation and the international affairs trend proves that we have chosen the right way based on our national interests. Our Open Doors Policy as the genuine core of our relations with the contemporary world proved to be realistic, right and beneficial. This policy increased Tajikistan’s partners and created a favorable foundation for wider participation of our country in the activities of international and regional organizations. We will continue this policy and will further undertake necessary measures to strengthen our cooperation with all countries of the world.

In this process, it is important to protect Tajikistan’s political, economic and security interests, attract foreign investments for implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects, create favorable external environment for our country’s sustainable development and ensure its security.

Our country initiated several creative initiatives at the international level to achieve these objectives and settle the water related issues. As a result, the international community recognized Tajikistan as the initiator of global water issues during the last two decades.

We believe that the continuous implementation of water diplomacy is the realistic means of solution to challenges in this sphere and we will continue playing this leading role within the next decade also.

Our new global initiative “International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018-2028” will officially start on March 22, 2018 on the sideline of celebration of International Nawruz and the World Water Day. Various events will be arranged within this Initiative in various countries of the world, including Tajikistan.

Tajikistan, during its independence, determined wider regional cooperation as the most important tool of solution to economic, trade, social, environmental and security issues as well as peace and stability in Central Asia, and is committed to strengthening people-to-people relations in the Region based on friendship and trust.

The common goals and objectives of our countries require ensuring favorable environment for free movement of people and smooth delivery of goods and investments and labor resources in the region. By relying on this method, we can enhance our security cooperation also and jointly counteract to and resist the current global threats and challenges in the region.

We believe that regional creative integration will be beneficial for all countries and nations in Central Asia.

Strengthening and expansion of relations with the CIS member countries is of strategic and particular importance in Tajikistan’s foreign policy.

Tajikistan will be presiding in CIS in 2018. The Meeting of the Heads of State and Government of this Organization’s member states to be held in Tajikistan next year will be among the most important events within our Chairmanship.

Next year we will also host the International High Level Conference on implementation of the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018-2028” and the Meeting of the Heads of Government of Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which will be of particular importance.

Tajikistan’s relations with key and other countries of Asia are gaining partnership spirit, which is the vivid evidence of our creative objectives. We will further continue our cooperation with all Asian countries in such a constructive way.

We think that support to Afghanistan’s economic revival and social development is the best tool for establishment of peace and stability in this country and ensuring security in the region. Therefore, we would like to call the International community to increase their hands-on assistance to support socio-economic development and improvement of security situation in Afghanistan. Tajikistan makes efforts to strengthen impartial cooperation with the Government of this neighboring country.

Cooperation with American and European countries is of particular importance in Tajikistan’s foreign policy. We are interested in further expanding Tajikistan’s relation with this group of countries, which are our important international development partners, based on mutual understanding, respect and mutually beneficial principles.

We have also been undertaking measures to vitalize our relations and cooperation with the West African and Latin American countries. The current rapid geo-economic transformations increasing the importance of economic diplomacy. Therefore, effective and fruitful use of economic diplomacy means to achieve national objectives is one of the priorities in Tajikistan’s foreign policy.

Expansion of economic cooperation with regional and international partners, international and regional financial institutions should always be at the center of attention of our Government and its relevant institutions.

The Government needs to undertake necessary measures to fulfill Tajikistan’s commitments within international and regional organizations and effectively involve them in implementation of important national programs and projects, including the National Development Strategy to 2030.

It is important for the ministries and agencies in their cooperation with other countries to undertake effective measures in protecting our country’s national interests, attracting foreign investment, including direct investments and new technologies.

We need to expand our humanitarian and cultural cooperation with other countries of the world in the current stage.

The Tajik nation decently contributed to the world civilization development with its ancient traditions and culture.

Our good traditions and national holidays like Nawruz, Mehrgon and Sada have served for promotion of decent behavior and morality in the history. Therefore, it is necessary to include the spiritual and nontangible achievements of our noble people into the UNESCO world heritage list, and to promote the role of Tajik nation as a creator of civilization. With this regard, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs needs to undertake more efforts in effective promotion of core goals and objectives of our foreign policy and expansion of multifaceted relations with other countries and international and regional organizations.

Distinguished Compatriots!
Ladies and Gentlemen!

The Government has been mobilizing every possible opportunity and resources for rehabilitation and construction of social and economic infrastructure, introduction of the latest technologies, settling the issues of water and energy, particularly use of renewable energy sources and implementation of “Green Economy”, ensuring favorable investment and business environment, private sector development and ensuring rule of law.

We will need to make further efforts for protection of our national economic interests, effective and rational use of available opportunities and resources, and seeking for new sources of economic development, improving local production’s competitiveness and applying innovative technologies. We have been ensuring the necessary environment, and adopting and implementing relevant public programs and strategies in this regard.

We have been implementing the National Development Strategy of Tajikistan to 2030 during the last two years, the priority actions of which are incorporated into the Midterm Development Program of Tajikistan (2016-2020), and have been achieving economic development gross indicators.

We allocated more than TJS 36bn from the public budget to achieve the envisaged objectives in this period and plan to allocate almost TJS 70bn for this purpose in 2018-2020.

I outlined in details about the achievements of the last 25 years of our state independence in my last Address. Now I would like to draw your attention to the achievements and existing challenges and the task for the next year.

This year we maintained stable macroeconomic indicators, our GDP growth made 7% and it reached TJS 60bn.

According to projection, our GDP will increase by 30% and reach up to TJS 82bn during the next three years.

With this regard, the Government needs to analyze the outcomes of the NDS implementation for the last two years thoroughly and to mobilize all possible opportunities and resources to ensure quality implementation of the Program by identifying the promoting and constraining factors. It also needs to improve the effectiveness and competitiveness of all capacities significantly and run reforms in various spheres of the national economy.

In 2017 the GDP per capita increased by 12% compared to the last year and exceeded by 8% against the projected indicator and the public’s monetary income increased by 10%.

We ensured the growth of the national economy’s spheres, including industry at 21.5%, agriculture at 7.2%, fixed assets financing at more than 6%, retail trade at 6.6% and fee-based services at 1.8% and maintained the inflation at the rate of 6.3%.

We ensured the public budget revenue implementation overall and determined the 2018 budget amounting TJS 21.3bn, which will be by 7.3% more compared to 2017.

Though during 11 months of 2017 the export increased by 35.4% and the import decreased by 10% compared to this period of the last year, we are not satisfied with these indicators since still the major part of our products are exported without final processing.

Therefore, we need to pay a particular attention to the export strengthening and expedite the diversification process of export-oriented production and undertake necessary measures in terms of final processing of agricultural products, including cotton, fruits and vegetables, extraction of minerals, and precious metals and stones.

The public budget takes into account its social objectives and the Government continuously undertakes measures to improve the population’s living standards. During the last five years the public budget funding for the education and healthcare sphere increased by 2.3 and 2.1 times respectively and by 16% and 25% in 2017 compared to 2016.  Given the development of our economy and current financial resources, we will implement the next phase of wage increase for budget-funded agencies’ staff starting from September 1, 2018. Thus, we will increase the wage of staff in the public executive authorities, educational, science, culture, sports, healthcare institutions, social protection agencies and other budget-funded organizations by 15%, and the wage of staff in law enforcement agencies and military officers by 10%. We will increased the minimum and maximum size of age-based pensions, the baseline pension, and the retirement pension up to 15% in average and the scholarship of university students and other scholarships by 15%.

We have been implementing public finance management reforms in the country to ensure effective and targeted use of budget resources, control and ensure their transparent spending. Within this reform, we will introduce a system of budgeting focusing on the country’s development.

The development budget alongside with fulfillment of the State’s growing social obligations, will also promote expansion of innovative and investment activities, quality implementation of sectorial programs and construction of infrastructure facilities.

We need to strengthen the program based budgeting to improve effectiveness of allocation and targeted use of financial resources. In this process, we need to pay a serious attention to the modern evaluation methods of adopted development strategies and programs and ensure their financing based on performance and effectiveness.

Implementation of activities on regulation of main budget administrators will make it possible to improve effectiveness of operation of public authorities, ensure monitoring of transparent and effective use of public finance and implementation of sectorial programs.

These measures will also improve the financing process at local level. I have to note that the local budgets reached TJS 5.3bn in 2017 and the share of subsidies from the national budget in them accounted for 16.7%. However, the qualitative analysis of local budget and the local socio-economic development plan implementation shows that the real capacity of local areas are not taken into account. Therefore, the province, district and town local executive authorities need to undertake specific measures to improve effective and transparent use of local budget, and ensure complementary sources of local budget replenishment.

The Government needs to undertake measures on improvement of tax administration system to ensure more simplified, easy and transparent taxation process. Alongside with this, it is necessary to improve the statistic reporting forms and the mechanisms of statistic information collection.

The situation with the monetary system, particularly the pressure of exchange rate on the national currency, instable banking capital, insufficient amount of loans issued to the national economy and attraction of investments urges us to undertake immediate measures in this area. This year, the loans issued by banks decreased by 4% compared to 2016.

This situation emerged due to the weak activities and indifference of heads and persons in charge of a number of commercial banks, including Agroinvestbank and Tojiksodirotbank. We have accomplished a number of activities following recapitalization of the two systemic banks to improve their financial situation and paying back the clients’ savings. However, these measures are still not sufficient to recover these two banks fully. Therefore, the Government needs to develop and implement plan of rehabilitation and recovery of Tojiksodirotbank and Agroinvestbank joint stock companies at the shortest possible.

Savings portfolio of financial institutions accounted for TJS 9bn as of 30 November 2017, which decreased by TJS 464m or 5% compared to this period of 2016.

The analysis of the loans allocated in 11 months of 2017 shows that their amount for production entrepreneurship increased by 4% only while they increased by 43% in the field of services.This situation will negatively impact on the speed of the development of real sectors, particularly on the country’s industrialization.

With this regard, the National Bank needs to undertake specific measures to conduct necessary monetary reforms, maintain stable exchange rate, stable prices and operation of banks, supervise the banking legislation enforcement and improve it, minimize the risks and introduce corporate governance methods.

We have been undertaking measures to regulate payment services, ensure simple and transparent operations, reduce cash in circulation and scale up non-cash settlements. It is necessary to develop the necessary infrastructure based on international experience.

Though according to analysis the number of bankcard holders increased by 5.5% and made 1.7m people in the last year, so far 95% of card are used for cash withdrawal operations only. With this regard, the National Bank needs to strengthen the supervision of implementation of the Payment System Development Strategy and undertake measures on installation of payment terminals and wider use of bankcards.

Alongside with this, it is necessary to reduce the minimum statutory capital amount for newly established bank from the existing TJS 80mn to TJS 50mn to ensure fair competition in the banking services market, expand the population’s access to financial resources, and attract more investment into this sector.

During the last two years, we have channeled more than TJS 22bn from all sources to the national economy, TJS 6m of which are public investment project funds.

In this period, we signed and have been implementing 40 loan and grant agreements amounting TJS 7bn for implementation of 26 projects on development of energy, transport and social infrastructure. In this regard, the State Committee for Investment and State Property Management needs to ensure strict control over the quality, transparent and timely implementation of these projects.

According to program documents, we expect to double the private sector’s share in overall investment by 2020. This objective urges us to pay a priority attention to creation of favorable environment and introduction of incentives for entrepreneurship and investments on the ground.

We need to vitalize the development and implementation of investment projects based on analysis of peculiarities of each region, including their natural and human resources, climate and location specifics. Therefore, the Government needs to introduce the methods of performance-based evaluation of executive authorities in provinces, towns and districts based on their contribution in ensuring favorable environment for entrepreneurship, creation of new jobs and vitalization of private investment activities.

The State Committee for Investment and State Property Management jointly with the local executive authorities need to undertake specific measures to arrange courses on business plan and investment project proposal development, improvement of legal and financial awareness of citizens and ensuring their access to financial resources.

Alongside with this, it is necessary to strengthen the activities of free economic zones in terms of attraction of investments and creation of infrastructure. The Government needs to thoroughly study the challenges of free economic zones and undertake additional measures to enhance their activities and establish other free economic zones in the country.

At the meeting with entrepreneurs and investors held on October 14 of this year, we have thoroughly analyzed the achievements and failures of the sector, well noted all proposals of entrepreneurs and we have currently been implementing a plan of action based on these factors.

I would like to emphasize once again that despite the comprehensive support by the State to entrepreneurs, we still see some cases of legislation breach by some entrepreneurs. The inspection in 2016 and 2017 showed that the tax amount evaded by entrepreneurs amounted TJS 1.6bn.)

According to the Government Resolution of May 27, 2017, we will establish a state administration on food safety based on four units and entities of the Ministry of Agriculture, and a state administration on protection of public health based on three units of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Protection.

Creation of the above-mentioned agencies will make it possible to reduce duplication of tasks and responsibilities, coordinate inspections, save public budget funds and reduce barriers to entrepreneurship.

According to the existing legislation, currently 78 inspection, supervisory, licensing and permit authorities, as well as law enforcement agencies inspect the activities of businesses.

Since mostly the legal entities are subject to inspection, in average five inspections were conducted in every active legal entity during nine months of 2017.

Therefore, with a view to overcoming groundless and duplicated inspections, and creating a favorable environment for entrepreneurship, I think it is necessary to introduce moratorium for all types of inspection of entrepreneurs engaged in production for the next two years, except the scheduled inspections by the tax authorities, Prosecutor’s General Office, Public Accounts Committee,  Anticorruption and State Financial Control Agency, and the National Bank.

Distinguished Members of Parliament!

Development of industry and final processing of its products is among the most important tasks given the changing situation and demand in the global market and with a view to ensuring sustainable economic growth.

I would like to recall that we envisage future industrialization and innovative development of our country, and it is very important to improve the effectiveness of processing and improve local products competitiveness through application of the latest technologies to achieve this objective.

Therefore, the Ministry of Industry and Innovative Technologies needs to implement sectorial programs on continuous increased raw material final processing based on the analysis of the regions’ capacity and possibilities and by defining priority areas in domestic production.

To strengthen the industries and supply them with qualified professionals, we need to boost the cooperation between the secondary and higher educational institutions and industrial enterprises on training of professionals with technical and technological skills.

In 2017, we established and launched 150 industries and created 3 000 jobs. In this period, the measures undertaken by the Government on  final processing of local products made it possible to increase the production of cotton thread by  2.8 times, carpet and carpet products by 1.6 times and fabrics by 42%.

In this context, it is necessary to undertake additional measures to supply the country’s textile companies with local raw materials, ensure final processing of cotton fiber and to increase cotton production in the country constantly.

The industrial products structure analysis shows that the coal extraction is dynamically growing in the country and this year for the first time during the independence period its extraction reached 1.7m tones.

Though the industrial growth made 21%, the production of 36 types of products decreased in 2017. This situation will make the implementation of export oriented and import substitution public programs difficult.

The analysis shows that the export has mostly been developing thanks to the recently established industries. Only during 2016-2017 minerals export doubled and its share made more than 45% within the export.

This situation shows that we have not ensured the export diversification at the necessary level yet, which increases the dependence of the country on external factors. Therefore, the Government needs to undertake necessary measures to analyze the possibilities of the value added export development, introduction of import substituting production, and develop the draft law of Tajikistan on support of export and competitiveness improvement.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Tajikistan is one of the countries implementing green economy at the international stage and is the sixth top country in the world in terms of the use of renewable energy since it generates 98% of its power in hydropower plants.

Alongside with construction of new power facilities, there is a need for rehabilitation of existing assets, which requires substantial investment. The Project on Rehabilitation of Nurek HPP amounting TJS 6bn (equivalent to USD $ 700m) is envisaged in two phases, the first phase of which started already.

The activities on rehabilitation of Sarband HPP amounting TJS 1.1bn already started and we will launch its first unit in 2018. Kayrokkum HPP is one of the oldest facilities, which has been serving since 1957. We mobilized TJS 600m for the rehabilitation of this facility and the Project activities will start next year. We will channel more than TJS 8bn (almost US $1bn) for rehabilitation of operative facilities overall. We spent TJS 4.7bn (more than US $500m) from all sources for the construction of Roghun HPP in 2017 and envisage more than TJS 5bn (almost US $600m) for this purpose in 2018.

In addition to this, we have been implementing seven public investment projects on renovation of the country’s energy grid and construction of necessary facilities for power export amounting TJS 8.1bn and we channeled more than TJS 21bn (US $2.4bn) overall for the sector’s development.

The measures undertaken by the Government in this area made it possible for the first time to supply the population and social and economic sectors of the country with power 24 hours.

Alongside with this, consumers and all citizens of the country need to make efforts to ensure energy loss reduction and its efficiency through wider utilization of energy efficient technologies. This approach will make it possible for us to achieve full energy security within the next three years. Therefore, the Government has to undertake necessary measures to improve power system management and administration, including measures on “Barqi Tojik” Company unbundling, metering, energy loss reduction and improvement of population’s awareness on energy efficiency.

Normal tariff for 1kw of power for population in CIS countries, is TJS 0.30 in Kazakhstan, TJS 0.38-0.40 in Russia, TJS 0.44-0.45 in Belarus, TJS 0.53-0.55 in Uzbekistan, TJS 0.80 in Armenia, and in Europe is even TJS 2,8-3 in Denmark, Germany, Belgium and other countries while in our country one kw of electricity costs TJS 0,17 only.    

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

The Government, with a view to achieving its objective to turn Tajikistan into a transit country by 2030, has implemented public investment project amounting more than TJS 12bn.

Currently, public investment projects on reconstruction of Dushanbe-Qurghon-Teppa, Khujand-Isfara, Kulob-Shamsiddini Shohin, Shkev-Qal’aikhumb, and Temurmalik-Baljuvon-Khovaling highways and other sections amounting TJS 7.7bn are ongoing.

Projects on reconstruction and construction of Obi Garm-Nurobod (86km), Qal’aikhumb-Vanj (93km), Khujand-Konibodom section of Khujand-Isfara highway (130km), and Qurghonteppa-Danghara-Kulob (155km) highways and overall more than 500km of roads are under study and design now.

The World Economic Forum within its Global Competitiveness Index granted Tajikistan with a good rank and recognized it as a leading country in terms of quality of roads and infrastructure development. However, we still need to do a lot in construction of roads and bring them in line with international standards.

As I outlined in my Address of the last year, we plan to rehabilitate and reconstruct more than 2000km of roads and bring them in line with international standards in the mid-term period.

Alongside with this, I would like to highlight once again that the local executive authorities in provinces, towns and districts are in charge of repair, rehabilitation and maintenance of urban and trans-regional roads and they need to strengthen their activities in this area.

In this regard, the Ministry of Transport jointly with relevant agencies and authorities, by attracting local and foreign investments, need to draft and implement relevant projects on establishment of border terminals, logistic centers and transport corridors and bring the services in line with international standards.

Supply of population with quality products, which is the main criterion of public health, is an important issue. However, there are some cases of import of low quality products to the consumption market of our country through different ways and tools by our entrepreneurs, which is harmful for the health of population.

The Government needs to introduce necessary structural changes to improve the system of public sanitary and phytosanitary, standardization, certification and veterinary control.

With a view to preventing the import of low quality and non-standard products, the designated authorities need to undertake immediate measures on strict enforcement of the Law of Tajikistan on protection of consumers’ rights, and draft and implement Food Safety Program.

According to the Prosecutor General’s Office, the Working Group on inspection of imported goods quality inspected 196 commercial companies and revealed that 90% of 500 to 600 tons of toys annually imported from twenty countries of the world do not meet safety standards and are harmful to health of children.

With a view to developing the poultry in the country and supplying the consumption market with local quality products it is necessary to introduce incentives and tax preferences. In this regard, the poultry sector needs to be declared as a priority sector in food production area and import of technologies and equipment and input for the sector should be released from all taxes and duties.

Alongside with this, the meet products storage technology meeting standards is not in place sufficiently, and entrepreneurs need to undertake measures in this regard.

Fruits and vegetables production has been increasing during the recent year, however their export during the 11 months of this year decreased by 23%. This means that despite the great demand of our main trade partners in our environmentally clean fruits and vegetables, the existing potential for their processing, packaging and export has not been used adequately and the relevant agencies and authorities need to constantly undertake measures in this regard.

The Government needs to develop and implement a new public program on food security by taking into account the real need of population in food products and ensuring their access to quality food.

Effective use of water and land resources and increasing agricultural products will be impossible without the import of new technologies and application of the latest agricultural methods of crop production.

We imported more than 10 000 units of agricultural machinery amounting TJS 570m during the last five years and provided preferences amounting more than TJS 200m for this purpose. 

In this regard, the Government and the Ministry of Industry and Innovative Technologies have to undertake measures to establish joint enterprises on production of agricultural machinery in the country.

The Ministry of Agriculture, the State Committee for Land Management and Geodesy, Agency for Land Reclamation and Irrigation and local executive authorities, by involving local and foreign entrepreneurs, need to undertake measures on improvement of land reclamation practices, introduction of intensive agricultural production methods, ensuring full-fledged agricultural use of rain-fed lands, and particularly improvement of land use culture.

It is also necessary to undertake measures to increase the area of horticulture and viticulture and thereby to increase the production of environmentally clean export-targeted fruits meeting international standards.

In this regard, it is very important to establish enterprises for agricultural products processing, logistic centers and cold storages and improve marketing activities by attracting local and foreign investments.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

Tourism is one of the major spheres to attract the working age population, to increase the population’s living standard, to develop other service and productive spheres, as well as tourism is the sphere introducing the history and culture, nature and national traditions.

We have insured the necessary legal framework and introduced a number incentive for the development of this sector. Thus, we released the import of the equipment and construction materials for tourism facilities from tax and customs duties and released tourism companies from the net profit tax during the first five years of their activities.

It is worthwhile noting that during the recent years, we introduced simplified visa regime for 80 countries of the world and unified electronic visa system. According to reputable international organizations, Tajikistan ranks the fourth among the five leading countries in the world for simplifies tourist visa system.  However, the level of activities on tourism development, including construction of tourism facilities and improvement of services quality desires to be improved.

The favorable natural and climate conditions of Tajikistan provide the best opportunities to introduce modern tourism services and develop its varieties throughout the country. We just need to construct modern infrastructure and improve the service quality in this area.

Currently, according to our legislation the citizens of countries, which have visa regime with Tajikistan, need three days for registration. The experience and analysis show that this timeframe is not sufficient for foreign citizens. Therefore, the Government needs to adopt relevant resolution on increasing the timeframe for registration at interior authorities to 10 working days.

It is impossible to ensure adequate visa issuance process without the proper infrastructure at the state border. Therefore, all of the border-crossing points of Tajikistan need to be connected to a single network and the border management system needs to be improved. The Government needs to settle out this issue within two month.

The Tourism Committee has to undertake necessary measures for development of different types of tourism, creation of necessary infrastructure, publication of information handouts and development of new routes in different sites in the country, improvement of the sectors legislations, develop draft tourism development strategy to 2030 and submit for the Government review.

One of the issues to be resolved in development of the country’s tourism is the improvement of quality of passenger delivery services by the State Airline Company of “Tajik Air” and the “Tajik Railway” Company. The outdated flee, inadequate management system and difficult financial situation created barrier for development of the abovementioned spheres.

I believe it is necessary to fully release the import of modern aircrafts, locomotives and passenger carriages from the customs duty and VAT in order to renew the flee of the abovementioned companies and thereby improve the services to passengers.  At the same time, the Government needs to develop and implement a special state support program to improve the competitiveness capacity of the “Tajik Air” Company. 

With a view to developing tourism, presenting our country’s unique tourism opportunities and national culture at the international stage, as well as attracting investment for tourism infrastructure improvement, I would like to propose to declare 2018 as the Year of tourism and folk- crafts in the country. 

In this process, the Government needs to make sure to allocate preferential loans to entrepreneurs and artisans through the Business Support Fund to develop the national folk-crafts.

With a view to encouraging population for production of public consumption goods and development of folk-crafts the sale of such products needs to release from all tax payments starting from January 1, 2018.   

I would like to recall that improvement of public administration system and delivery of quality services is an important aspect of economic reforms.

Success of the country’s future development, first and foremost, depends on effectiveness of management system, enhancement of the public servants’ sense of responsibility, elimination of artificial barriers and transparency in public authorities’ activities. Therefore, the Government needs to constantly continue activities on improvement of public administration system and develop and implement strategic planning principles  at the national and local levels.

Dear Members of Parliament!

Human development indicators consist of three main pillars: access to education, health and longevity and level of decent life. The Government has implemented public programs and additional measures on improvement of these areas and made significant achievements during the last two years. Particularly, we have implemented serious initiatives and running reforms and innovations on science and education.

In 2017, more than TJS 400m from all resources construction and reconstruction of educational facilities and created 24 000 seats.

We will continue this process in 2018 and will channel more resources from the public budget and investment projects funds to this sector.

We also adopted the State Program on arrangement of individual subject classrooms and labs in secondary schools (2018-2020) approved by a Government resolution.

The education indicators show that the adult education improved and the share of citizens with primary, secondary and higher education increased significantly.

According to a survey on developing countries conducted by reputable international  organizations in 2017 Tajikistan ranked 54th among 101 countries of the world according to four indicators: access to education, education quality, human capital and competitiveness.  

This study ranked Tajikistan among the top countries in the CIS.

Indeed, this is a good achievement, however we should not stop paying attention to this vitally important sector by this achievement.   In contrary, we need to make more efforts, attach more priority to education, improve the education quality and standard at all level and avail  all possibilities to ensure quality education, strengthen the physical infrastructure of educational institutions and also ensure their   effectiveness.

To achieve this objective we need to bring in line our quality indicators with international standards, ensure close cooperation between secondary and higher educations and labor markets, players and improve the national innovation system and ICT indicators. The quality of future professionals training depends on this factors and their improvements will make it possible for us to make more progress in the education sphere.

In this regard, the Ministry of education and science needs to undertake additional measures to improve the level of education of school and university students, and study of modern sciences and foreign languages, also pay a priority attention to improvement of the national self-consciousness, patriotism, pride of motherland and human behavior of young generation. Human capital as the powerful engine can promote the development of innovation and new technologies. Therefore, the contemporary science sector should encourage young people to study science, implement innovation projects and research digital economy issues.

Particularly expansion of invention process, learning the use of innovative technology and their application in production are the primary task of scientists.

According to the available data, 1000 out of 14000 glaciers registered in our country melted as a result of the global warming during the last 40 years and this process is continuing dynamically. Given this situation, the Academy of Sciences needs to establish glacier center and ensure constant monitoring of glaciers and other sources of water.

Alongside with this, the Academy’s research institutions need to continue the research on biodiversity, natural resources and minerals, geological exploration, archeological research and the Tajik national history and culture studies.

Given the current development of science and technology with a space speed, our scholars need to expand their technological research in order to improve our national science competitiveness.

The cultural globalization trend became one of the global challenges in the 21st century, demand in human morality education and formation of the young generation, who will be in charge of a great task for creation of a modern society in the period of Tajik national sovereignty is ever growing. In this important period the goals and objectives of the culture  is  to develop morality,  ensure accurate study of the Tajik nation’s past and present history and culture, promote the sense of national pride, patriotism and  motherland ownership, as well as to improve the  awareness of people, particularly   teenagers and young people on respect to national sacred symbols.

During the last ten years, the Government has built the National Library and the National Museum, ensured major repair of the majority of  professional theatres and cultural facilities, including two academic theatres in Dushanbe, and constructed and commissioned more than 20 modern theatres and cultural centers in various towns and districts.

To train specialists in the field of culture we established two higher education institutions – the National Conservatory and the State Institute of painting and design, repaired Mirzo Tursunzoda State Institute of culture and arts fully, and for the first time established the national symphony orchestra consisted of 120 musicians. Alongside with this, 100 of our specialists in the field of culture have studied in educational facilities abroad and some of them have already come back and work for professional theatres and cultural institutions. Nevertheless, we  still feel the lack of qualified specialists in  the field of culture.

Therefore, the Ministry of culture needs to overcome this gap within the implementation of the State program for training  of specialists in the fields of culture, arts and printing activities (2018-2022).

We also need to improve the activities of cultural and arts institutions, museums, libraries, theatres and cultural centers and to encourage the society to attend these facilities and thereby to give a serious impetus to improve awareness and morality of the society, particularly the teenagers and youth, i.e. the future creators of nation.

Esteemed Members of Parliament!

As the public health is the most important criterions for the country progress, the Government pays priority attention to the public health care issues.

During the last 26 years, we implemented public investment and foreign aid based projects on supply of population and social facilities with quality drinking water, which is the main factor for health protection, and spent TJS one billion for them and currently projects amounting in TJS 1.2 bn are under implementation in this area.

We have been constantly implementing reforms on public health care and social protection. The dynamic increase in financing of this sector made it possible to launch hundreds of new health care facilities equipped with the latest medical equipment during the two last years and the medical services quality has bee. This regard of this progress we still have a number of challenges remaining in the sector, which require the timely solutions.

Tajikistan has invaluable natural resources like thermal waters medicinal herbs, and a favorable nature and environment for development of pharmaceutical sphere and establishment of recreational zones in the areas with medicinal water resources. However, we are not satisfied with the current use of these opportunities and creation of modern treatment and recreational infrastructure.

In my address of the last year, I expressed my concern with the law quality of medicines and the under developed pharmaceutical sector. However, the situation in this area has note improved yet. Currently 32 small pharmaceutical companies are operative in the country; however, they produce 240 type of medicines and medical goods only.

Thus, the lack of medicines, their law quality and under developed pharmaceutical sector has become an issue of concern in the country though there are over 3500 types of herbs and hundreds of thermal water sources in our country.

With a view of improving the situation, I would like to propose to release the import of the latest technologies for pharmaceutical companies and diagnostics and treatment equipment  from VAT and customs duty starting from 2018.

We pay a particular attention to the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities, social support of vulnerable segments of population, including orphans and children without custodians, lower income families and their access to medical and social services and have been undertaking timely measures in this direction. For example, the financing makes TJS 21 000 per person in boarding houses for orphans, persons with disabilities and elderly persons and TJS 15 000 per child in children boarding houses per annum. 

The public budget allocates TJS 7 500 in average per student for the education sector boarding schools annually. However, the issues related to training social workers, introduction of innovative ways of social work and ensuring accessibility of facilities to persons with disabilities require to be improved.

Therefore, the Ministries of health and social protection of population, labor, migration and public employment and educational and science jointly with the relevant central and local executive authorities need to undertake necessary measures to address the existing challenges and overcome the existing gaps.

The Government pays a particular attention to employment and creation of new jobs, and it has implemented several government programs in this direction.

In 2017, 135, 000 permanent, temporary and seasonal jobs work created, which cannot solve the job related challenges in the country. Therefore, we in cooperation with domestic and foreign businesses and through further attraction of local and foreign, including direct investments need to undertake measures in terms of establishment of small and medium enterprises and development of new lands, which is the source of job creation.

With this regard, the Government needs to undertake immediate measures to establish small and medium enterprises and create 110,000 permanent jobs in 2018, particularly for women and youth.

At the same time, the Ministry of labor, migration and public employment, the Ministry of industry and innovative technologies, and the Ministry of education and science, the Committee on youth and sports, the Committee for women and family, the Committee for tourism and local executive authorities in provinces, towns and districts need to analyze the  employment of every person in all families in the country, and ensure their involvement in agricultural area and home-based work,  weaving, folk-crafts and also seasonal  and services related jobs. It is also necessary to ensure adult occupation by establishing occupational training centers within secondary, primary and higher education institutions.

Taking into account the creative contribution of young people in the country, we declared 2017 as the Year of Youth. This initiative will also give a serious impetus to improve the sense of patriotism, protection of state security and formation of mindset on the national pride, self-consciousness and self-awareness.

I am pleased to outline that our strong-willed youth and proactively participate in public and community events and decently contribute to welfare and development activities as a constructive power.

In this process, the youth need to initiate the future activities in the country themselves, present their research and invention achievements in a timely manner, counteract to negative phenomena, maintain political awareness, stand ready for protection of the public and state security, respect our nation’s history and culture and make efforts for flourishment of our beloved country – Tajikistan.

The Government will not limit its care towards the youth only by running the year of youth. In contrary, the issues of youth and teenagers will remain as one of the most important areas of our focus in the future also.

We need to pay more attention to the publicity of sports, promotion of healthy lifestyle and constant development of sports in our country, because the sports is an important factor for physical and moral development of human being and the foundation for healthy lifestyle.

Sports, as the ambassador of peace, is the best means of the state and nation introduction at the international stage. This year, Tajik sportsmen participated in many regional and world competitions and improved the reputation of our beloved country. Their achievements is a decent gift in the year of youth.

Though from 2011 to 2016 more than 1400 new sport facilities were constructed and almost 1100 assets were repaired and reconstructed in districts and towns of our country, we will need to continue constructing playgrounds, sport facilities and gyms and pay a serious attention to future development of sport infrastructure.

This year in Dushanbe 75 small and large sport playgrounds and centers were constructed and separate exercise areas were established in the majority of recreational and leisure gardens, which promotes publicity of sports and healthy lifestyle in the community of youth.

Additionally, the Dushanbe city municipality intends to create another 90 sports grounds and gardens in 2018 in the capital city and launch them by the celebration of independence.

Within this initiative, the Governments of GBAO, Soghd and Khatlon provinces, direct subordination districts have to develop their action plan and to mobilize all available resources for the publicity and development of sports and promotion of healthy lifestyle by the 30th anniversary of Independence.

It is necessary to establish gardens, recreation and leisure centers and sport facilities, and implement other development activities in cooperation with entrepreneurs and other philanthropists in the centers of provinces, settlements and villages and undertake timely measures to grow healthy future generations and create opportunities for public leisure.

Dear compatriots!

We have chosen the establishment of a law-based society, one of the main ideas of which is ensuring rule of law and protection of human and citizens’ rights and freedom.

This principle requires regulating public relations in all areas through the laws meeting the norms of ethics, justice and humanity. One of the important initiatives in this area is to include amendments and additions to six laws and legal and regulatory documents alongside with the Law of Tajikistan on regulation of traditions and customs supported by the residents of our country, which led to improvement of the public social situation.

It is obvious that ensuring favorable legal environment is the priority task of any law-based state. It is important to protect security and public order to implement this objective. This is the reason, the issue of security is the frontline issue in the current global agenda.

This year we witnessed severe terrorist attacks in Asia, Africa, Europe and America and there is almost no day free of terrorist attacks’ victims in different parts of the world.

Despite this situation, there is no unified international definition of the terms of “terrorism” and “extremism”, which facilitates application of double standard policies and lead to misunderstanding.

We always need to bear in mind that it is impossible to split “terrorism” and “terrorists” into “our own” and “strangers”, “fanatic” and “reformer” or “good” and “bad”. In contrary, as I emphasized several times, terrorists do not have any motherland, religion, creed, or nationality.

The phenomenon of terrorism has a significant threat on the stability and security in the earth. The contemporary threats, the situation in the Middle East, particularly, the situation in the neighboring Afghanistan urge us to attach a priority attention to the issue of security.

The challenge of Afghanistan threats the regional situation, since its territory turned into the area of destructive operations by the different terrorist groups. Particularly, the emergence of terrorists like ISIS, which is joined by some citizens of CIS countries, aggravated the situation further and caused deep concern by neighboring countries.

Tajikistan, by sharing a long border with Afghanistan, cannot remain indifferent with regard to this issue. The current situation on the border with Afghanistan also urges us to pay more attention to this issue. Another challenge, associated with Afghan case, is the illicit drags’ trafficking.

Everybody is aware that the illicit drug trafficking is one of the sources of financing of international terrorism and instabilities at the global level. According to the UN official data, this year  the area of narcotics production increased by 63% and reached up to 328ha, and it is expected that 9000 tons of opium will be produced and the smugglers will attempt to deliver a part of this product through our country.

Our law-enforcement and military agencies have confiscated more than 121 000 tons of narcotics, including more than 34 tons of heroin since 1994, which could make almost 53 000 000 people drug users and destroyed the same number of families.

However, the Drugs Control Agency and other relevant authorities need to strengthen their fight against the illicit drags’ trafficking and undertake additional measures in this area.

In the current complicated situation, the officers of Armed Forces and law-enforcement agencies need to stand ready for protection of the borders of our sovereign State, securing political stability, rule of law and legal order. We fully trust in and are proud of the brave sons of our nations – protectors of our beloved country.

Alongside with this, the Government, by taking into account the current world’s difficult situation, needs to undertake necessary measures to create favorable environment for decent life and service of military officers, strengthen physical infrastructure of the border troops and other units of Armed Forces, construct modern border protection infrastructure and supply the above-mentioned authorities with qualified professionals.

We constantly draw the attention of public authorities and society to strengthening the fight against corruption, because despite the measures undertaken by the Government, we still witness cases of abuse, official misconduct, bribery, misuse of property and other corrupt acts.

The corruption related crimes committed by some public servants, law enforcement and military agency officers in 2017 increased compared to 2016. Thus, increased number of cases of such crimes committed by staff from the ministries of education and science, healthcare, labor, migration and public employment, State Committee for Land Management and Geodesy, Committees for tax, youth and sports, courts and banks were registered.

The corruption related crimes at local executive authorities have also growing trend and increased by 25% compared to 2016. Therefore, the heads of ministry and agency, particularly, law enforcement agencies, local executive authorities and local self-governance entities need to ensure the recruitment and appointment of staff only through vacancy competition and need to undertake clearance activities, ensure strict enforcement of the public servant ethics code and implementation of effective internal control measures.

Another serious issue to which we need to pay a constant attention is the prevention of corruption factors in the land use. With a view to meeting the needs of public, we allocated more than 130 000 ha, including 27 000 ha of irrigated arable lands as kitchen garden to residents of our country during the independence period. However, we still observe cases of illegal land allocation, land transactions and willful self-acquisition of land.

Only during the last ten years, almost 1300 land related corruption crimes were committed. Therefore, the Prosecutor General’s Office, Anticorruption and State Financial Control Agency and the Committee for Land Management and Geodesy in cooperation with other public authorities need to undertake strict measures to timely detect and prevent land related, particularly corruption crimes and violations.

Distinguished Members of Parliament,
Dear Compatriots,

Our sovereign Tajikistan, thanks to the hard work of our educated and civilized people, has entered a new phase of its development. Peace and stability, political stability, unity and integrity of the noble Tajik people made it possible to radically change the direction of our national economic development, adopt new public programs, strengthen our governance system, the main principle of which is social justice, launch new production capacities, supply our population with power 24 hours throughout the year, and create a favorable environment for future development of vital sectors in our country.

We made this progress thanks to the hard efforts of every resident of our country, including farmers and workers, specialists and engineers, teachers and academicians, civil society and heads of all public agencies, which once again proves the strong will, industriousness and high sense of patriotism of all citizens of our beloved Tajikistan.

However, I would like to emphasize that despite these achievements and progress, we still have a lot of issues and challenges ahead to be resolved. The most important task of the Members of Parliament, Members of Government, heads of all agencies and authorities, provinces, towns and districts, organizations and entities, all public servants, youth and women, intelligentsia, and every youngster and adult in the country is to continue making efforts, first and foremost, for peace, political stability and national unity of our country.

Thus, it is our duty to continue making hard efforts to achieve our national strategic objectives, particularly energy security and energy efficiency, ensuring the country’s connectivity and turning Tajikistan into a transit country, food security and ensuring population’s access to quality food, and to ensure flourishment of our country properly down to its remotest areas, establish new enterprises, create new jobs for our people and improve their living standards.

Since the noble people of Tajikistan deserve the right to decent life. Only through patience, strong will, unity, collective efforts, dedicated and honest work, high sense of responsibility and creative initiatives, we can achieve our objectives and implement our plans and programs.

A few days ago, I signed a Decree on celebration of the 30th anniversary of Tajikistan’s Independence and instructed the Government to develop and issue its relevant resolutions and action plans on this glorious date.

The Government and the local executive authorities have to seriously and with a sense of responsibility treat the development of a draft resolution of the Government and action plan and pay a priority attention to establishment of education, medical, cultural and other social facilities, construction of roads, production entities and workshops, particularly to flourishment of local residential areas and squares, gardens and other creative and development initiatives.

Alongside with this, all of the intelligentsia, scholars and thinkers, youth and women, heads of cultural and research institutions, including the Ministry of Culture, Academy of Sciences, TV and Radio Committee need to contribute to promoting the assents of independence and freedom, motherland and state ownership and high national values, cover these national sacred values widely and raise the awareness of every resident of our country, particularly teenagers and youth on the assents of sovereignty and freedom.

I fully believe in the creative power of my dear people and confidently state that we will overcome the challenges faced by our society and state in the nearest future and create better living environment for our people through our collective hard work.

I wish continued health, good future, success and welfare to everybody of you Members of Parliament, distinguished participants and all noble people of Tajikistan!

Thank you very much!

The Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon had talks with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko in Minsk.

During the restricted format talks, the participants discussed a broad range of issues of Tajik-Belarusian cooperation. Following the talks, consultations were held with the participation of the delegations.

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon expressed his satisfaction with the Tajik-Belarusian relations based on a long tradition of friendship, partnership and mutual benefit, which actively developed in political, trade-economic, scientific-technical, cultural and other spheres.

Along with it, the sides consider that the development of the Tajik-Belarusian relations will continue within the framework of existing bilateral and multilateral agreements. It was noted that the Tajik-Belarusian cooperation has reached close partnership

While addressing international and regional issues, the heads of state exchanged views on ensuring security and stability, strengthening efforts to combat cross-border terrorism, extremism, organized crime and illegal drug trade.

The parties stressed the importance of enhancing coordination within the framework of the international organizations, especially UN and its specialized agencies as a tool to solve global problems, ensuring sustainable development, strengthening security and stability in the world.

During the talks, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment on further expansion and improvement of Tajik-Belarusian legal base.

It was noted the importance of the signing documents that cover practically wider areas of cooperation, from economic cooperation to developing ties between Tajik – Belarus regions.

The heads of both states noted the importance of further intensification of inter parliamentary cooperation and its subsequent development.

Taking into account the positive experience of inter-regional cooperation at the regional and sub-regional levels, the heads of both states stressed the need to fill cooperation in different directions with new content.

In order to enter the path of economic growth and development, the heads of states renewed their commitment on enhancing effectiveness of Tajik - Belarus Intergovernmental Commission for Economic Cooperation.

It was expressed the need to find a more effective logistics solution for the implementation of economic reform, the creating particularly favorable conditions for joint ventures and business entities. And in this context, the agro-industrial complex, machine building, transportation, food and light industries are a central pillar of the economic relationship.

The heads of state expressed confidence that the expansion of cooperation in cultural and humanitarian field is the most important aspects for preserving and enhancing the good historical ties between the two nations. The presidents welcomed holding regular meetings of representatives of the scientific community, writers and artists of Tajikistan and Belarus.

The two sides expressed readiness to continue the practice on holding cultural days, and consistently developing bilateral cooperation in the field of education and science.

During talks in an atmosphere of friendship, mutual trust and constructiveness, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon and President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko expressed their satisfaction with the results of today's meeting.

The President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon invited the President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko to make an official visit to Tajikistan at his convenience. The invitation was accepted with gratitude. The terms of the official visit will be coordinated through diplomatic channels.

A package of 4 documents on cooperation has been signed following the Tajik-Belarus talks.

- Agreement on cooperation between the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the Republic of Belarus in the field of agriculture;

- Agreement on cooperation between the Academy of Agricultural Sciences of the Republic of Tajikistan and the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus;

- Agreement on cooperation between the Executive Body of State Authority of the Khatlon Province of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Gomel region of the Republic of Belarus in the field of trade and economic, scientific, technical, cultural and humanitarian areas;

- Agreement on cooperation between the Executive Body of State Authority of the Sughd Province of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Mogilev Regional Executive Committee of the Republic of Belarus.