Islamabad, November 14, 2025: President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday described Tajikistan as a “bridge to the heart of Central Asia,” adding that Pakistan serves as its gateway to international waters — a partnership he said can significantly contribute to regional peace and stability.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Tajikistan’s Defence Minister, Colonel General Sabirzoda Emomali Abdulrahim, who called on him at Aiwan-e-Sadr, according to a statement issued by the Presidency.
Welcoming the delegation, President Zardari said Pakistan greatly values its multi-dimensional ties with Tajikistan, rooted in shared history, culture and linguistic links. He noted that Pakistan was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Tajikistan in 1992, and stressed the need to further strengthen political, cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
Highlighting untapped potential in bilateral trade and investment — particularly in the energy sector — the president reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the timely completion of the CASA-1000 regional power project.
He also expressed satisfaction over expanding defence cooperation, pointing to increased leadership-level exchanges between the armed forces of both countries. He said the successful Dosti-II joint exercise underscored the depth of their defence partnership.
The Tajik defence minister conveyed his country’s desire to broaden cooperation with Pakistan across multiple sectors.
Those accompanying the visiting minister included Tajik Ambassador Sharifzoda Yusuf Tohir, Col Rasulzoda Karim Abdurasul, Maj Gen Hakimzoda Zarif Yunusi and Maj Gen Amonullozoda Aminjon Amonullo.
Senators Sherry Rehman and Saleem Mandviwalla were also present during the meeting.
