The programme of the visit of the President of Tajikistan to Astana was opened by high-level talks in a narrow format.
The Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the importance of the visit in enhancing bilateral cooperation.
“Your visit is highly significant in promoting genuinely friendly relations between our brotherly nations. We speak of strategic partnership and allied relations between our countries with good reason. The mere fact that you have arrived to open the Days of Tajik Culture in Astana says a lot”, stated the President of Kazakhstan.
In response, Emomali Rahmon expressed gratitude for the kind reception.
“Thank you very much, honorable Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, for the invitation, warm welcome and hospitality. Firstly, today I would like to discuss the state and future prospects of our relations, in addition to international and regional issues", said the Tajikistan leader.
The discussions proceeded with the involvement of delegates from both nations.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized that Kazakhstan highly regards friendly relations with Tajikistan.
“There are particularly warm feelings towards the brotherly Tajik people on Kazakh soil. Kazakhstani people want to know modern Tajikistan better and seek a deeper understanding of the rich culture of the Tajik people. Therefore, your timely initiative to organize such large-scale events has found a positive response from the residents and guests of Kazakhstan. It is symbolic that this landmark event is taking place in the year of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries," the President said.
The Head of State noted the dynamic development of bilateral relations in all spheres, including interaction in the water and energy sector.
“We appreciate you and the Tajik side for making prompt decisions regarding the fulfilment of commitments in the water and energy domain, particularly concerning the provision of water and electricity to Kazakhstan. For its part, Kazakhstan fulfills all its obligations, which we agreed on during your earlier visit," emphasized Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The leader of Kazakhstan noted the successful implementation of the Declaration on allied cooperation between Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, signed during the May visit of Emomali Rahmon to Kazakhstan. According to the Head of State, the trade turnover for the first half of the year exceeded $500 million dollars, with plans to increase mutual trade volume up to $2 billion.
The President of Tajikistan also praised the state of bilateral cooperation.
“We appreciate the attention and support given to the organization and hosting of Tajikistan's Cultural Days as well as our country's exhibition-fair showcasing products from the agricultural and industrial sectors in Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent. We regard these events as another manifestation of the steady development of Tajik-Kazakh relations, strategic partnership and alliance. It is significant that they are being held in the 30th anniversary year of the establishment of diplomatic relations. It is pleasing that the relationship between our nations currently holds a high level of mutual understanding, respect and trust. Expanding this relationship further remains a top priority for Tajikistan's foreign policy”, stated Emomali Rahmon.
The sides discussed prospects for further cooperation in trade and economic, transport and logistics, agricultural, energy, financial, cultural and humanitarian spheres.