Tehran, Dushanbe ink 23 cooperation agreements
Pezeshkian, Rahmon reaffirm centuries-old history of friendship
High-ranking officials from Iran and Tajikistan signed 22 cooperation agreements and one memorandum of understanding on Thursday in the presence of the two countries’ presidents as a joint statement was issued following the signing ceremony in the Tajik capital of Dushanbe.
The agreements cover a wide range of areas, including diplomatic cooperation, transportation development, joint efforts to combat administrative corruption, customs education, standardization, food security, women and family affairs, statistics, archival management, digital technology, religious studies, social services, genetic engineering, agriculture, industrial innovation, exhibitions, and communications, according to president.ir.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that the ground is paved to surpass the $500 million trade threshold between Iran and Tajikistan and noted that both countries have significant potential to meet each other’s needs for essential goods.
Speaking at a joint press conference with his Tajik counterpart Emomali Rahmon, Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and highlighted the recent momentum in bilateral relations.
He expressed hope that the implementation of the signed agreements would lead to considerable progress in cooperation between the two nations.
Pezeshkian underscored the shared economic interests of Iran and Tajikistan, stating that new initiatives would positively impact employment and public welfare in both countries.
He called for the removal of customs barriers, improved entry and exit facilities, and a secure environment for private sector activities.
The Iranian president also announced that a joint economic commission meeting would soon be held to address key bilateral issues in political, economic, trade, cultural, and environmental fields.
Pezeshkian addressed regional developments, including the situation in Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of stability and security in the neighboring country and stressed the need to protect border security, aligning it with the interests of both Iran and Tajikistan.
Strengthening parliamentary ties
Later in the day, Pezeshkian met with Muhammadtoir Zokirzoda, the speaker of Tajikistan’s National Assembly. He highlighted the historical, cultural, and linguistic ties between the two nations, stating that he felt at home during his visit to Tajikistan.
Pezeshkian expressed hope that the signed agreements would be implemented promptly and that cooperation between the two countries would continue to grow.
He called for closer parliamentary collaboration to facilitate trade and investment laws and remove obstacles to economic and commercial interactions.
Zokirzoda reaffirmed Tajikistan’s readiness to expand relations with Iran across all sectors, particularly in parliamentary cooperation.
He noted the shared historical and cultural roots of the two nations, which he said provide a strong foundation for deeper ties.
Boosting trade, tourism
At a joint business, investment, and tourism forum, Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s commitment to removing barriers to trade and investment with Tajikistan.
He emphasized that Iran has no restrictions on expanding cooperation in scientific, commercial, industrial, technological and agricultural fields.
The president highlighted the centuries-old history of friendship between Iran and Tajikistan, stating that the two nations share a deep cultural and historical bond.
He called for the simplification of travel regulations to boost tourism, economic activities, and cultural exchanges.
He expressed hope that the joint economic commission would facilitate closer cooperation and mutual benefits for both nations.
Shared vision for future
Pezeshkian urged citizens of both countries to view each other’s homelands as their own, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual growth.
He expressed confidence that such an approach would lead to shared prosperity and progress in security, health, and development.
The Iranian president also praised Tajikistan’s constructive role in international forums and reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to mutual support on the global stage.
He expressed hope that the agreements signed during his visit would pave the way for stronger bilateral relations and increased trade and cooperation.