On March 12–13, 2025, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon made a state visit to the Kyrgyz Republic, marking a turning point in the history of bilateral relations. This visit not only strengthened political and economic ties between the two countries but also laid the foundation for long-term peace and stability in the region.
Relations between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan over recent decades have been overshadowed by border disputes, leading to periodic conflicts and tensions in border areas. The shared border stretches about 980 kilometers, with many sections remaining undemarcated for a long time, creating conditions for disagreement. The signing of the Treaty on the State Border during this visit became the culmination of many years of negotiations and demonstrated the willingness of both sides to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation.
Key Events of the Visit
On the first day of the visit, March 12, President Emomali Rahmon arrived in Bishkek, where he was warmly welcomed by President Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan. The welcoming ceremony included elements of Kyrgyz culture, emphasizing the respect and hospitality of the host nation. The two leaders visited Ala-Archa Natural Park, where they participated in an ethnocultural program showcasing the rich traditions of the Kyrgyz people.
On March 13, President Rahmon laid a wreath at the Ata-Beyit Memorial, honoring prominent figures of Kyrgyz history. The official welcoming ceremony took place at the “Yntymak Ordo” residence, followed by extended-format talks involving delegations from both nations. Discussions covered key areas of bilateral cooperation, including political, economic, and cultural dimensions.
Signed Agreements and Their Significance
A landmark result of the visit was the signing of the Treaty on the State Border between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. This document concludes years of negotiations on border delimitation and demarcation, significantly enhancing trust and regional stability. The treaty removes potential sources of conflict and fosters conditions conducive to sustainable development in border regions.
A total of 16 bilateral documents were signed, covering various spheres of cooperation:
· Economy and Trade. Both sides agreed to increase trade turnover to $500 million, signaling intensified collaboration in industry, agriculture, and energy sectors. To achieve this goal, an Intergovernmental Council, led by the Prime Ministers of both countries, was established to coordinate joint efforts.
· Transport and Communications. Agreements were reached to restore air connections between Dushanbe and Bishkek, as well as to open border checkpoints at “Kairagach” and “Kyzyl-Bel.” These initiatives will facilitate the movement of citizens and goods, promoting economic interaction and strengthening bonds between the peoples of the two nations.
· Culture and Education. Programs of cooperation in youth policy, physical culture, and sports for the period of 2025–2027 were signed, along with the establishment of sister-city relationships between Dushanbe and Bishkek. These initiatives aim to deepen humanitarian ties and promote knowledge exchange between educational and cultural institutions of the two countries.
Analysis and Prospects for Further Cooperation
The signing of the Treaty on the State Border holds particular significance, considering previous border incidents and tensions. This step not only eliminates potential conflict triggers but also creates conditions for the stable growth of border areas. Additionally, restoring transportation links and expanding cooperation in the energy sector, notably through the CASA-1000 project, open new avenues for economic growth and regional integration.
For Tajik National University, this visit presents fresh opportunities for academic exchanges, collaborative research, and cultural projects with Kyrgyz partners. Enhanced cooperation in education and research will foster the training of highly skilled specialists and strengthen friendly ties between the peoples of both countries.
In conclusion, President Emomali Rahmon’s state visit to Kyrgyzstan in March 2025 can rightly be viewed as a historic milestone in Tajik-Kyrgyz relations, inaugurating a new era of cooperation, mutual trust, and shared prosperity.
Department of Diplomacy and Foreign Policy of the Republic of Tajikistan
