Key to Central Asia’s heart

By Dmitry Kryat

“If our partners are interested in our proposals for cooperation, we’ll implement these projects within two years at the most; even the most complicated ones. There are no irresolvable issues. We have no desire to make things complicated. If we have agreed on something, we’ll certainly realise it. You can be confident that we will do our part”

An official visit to Belarus by President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon has resulted in a solid package of bilateral documents, tackling the industrial sphere, as well social and humanitarian projects and the strengthening of regional contacts. A strategy for further collaboration has been signed jointly by our two states, following intense negotiations.

 Belarus and Tajikistan are connected by more than simple trade relations, boasting a high level of political dialogue, and efficiently interacting with the UN, CIS and CSTO. Moreover, we share a similar position on major issues of international policy. Minsk and Dushanbe plan to continue on this course, especially tackling international and regional security.

Mutual trade turnover over the last two years has fallen, arousing some concern. Of course, the whole world is currently experiencing a slump in trade but Tajikistan and Belarus have many areas of promise. High quality Tajik cotton is in demand in Belarus, while we export Belarusian tractors, household appliances, furniture, trucks and medicines to Tajikistan, as well as training specialists. Our intergovernmental commission has much to work upon, to take full advantage of our opportunities.

Minsk has a range of initiatives, with Mr. Lukashenko proposing supply of Belarusian tractors under various leasing schemes, or with the help of privileged loans, including involving Tajik banks. Belarus is ready to satisfy the machinery needs of the Tajik agrarian sector, while offering maintenance services for years to come.

Belarus is keen to set up assembly of detachable and trailing equipment in Tajikistan, signing a licensing agreement for the use of technology and sharing of expertise through training of specialists, as well as the right to use the ‘Belarus’ trademark.

Areas of co-operation are endless, so dialogue will continue, including at the highest level. Mr. Rahmon has invited Mr. Lukashenko to make an official visit to Tajikistan, and our two governments have clear instructions regarding practical implementation of the agreements signed by the two heads of state.