In a reaffirmation of centuries-old ties, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan stand as pillars of friendship and cooperation, guided by shared history, culture, and values. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan eloquently described the bond between the two nations as akin to "two branches of one tree, two tributaries of one river." Avesta in Tajikistan, recently shared a publication by the Minister of Agriculture of Uzbekistan, the esteemed academician Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov.
”The Uzbek and Tajik peoples are like two branches of one tree, two tributaries of one river. We have one religion, common land and water. We are together in joy and sorrow, united by a common destiny. Continuing the good traditions of our ancestors, we must strengthen and protect the friendship of our peoples." President Mirziyoyev voiced.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, the two countries have signed over a hundred treaties and agreements, laying the foundation for cooperation in various fields including political, economic, and agricultural sectors. The treaties of Friendship, Good Neighborhood, and Cooperation, signed in 1993 and 2000, emphasized mutual respect, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
The warmth of the relationship is evident in the frequent high-level meetings between the leaders of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, fostering trust and understanding. Informal addresses such as "my dear brother" reflect the deep personal rapport between the leaders.
One of the significant milestones in recent years has been the opening of multiple checkpoints along the border, facilitating the movement of citizens and strengthening family ties between the two nations. This development has been celebrated by the people on both sides, symbolizing the tangible benefits of closer cooperation.
Agriculture stands as a cornerstone of collaboration, with both countries actively working together to enhance productivity and trade. Joint working groups, ministerial visits, and exchange programs highlight the commitment to agricultural development. From March 4 to 7, 2024, a delegation composed of representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, various organizations, and entrepreneurs from Uzbekistan embarked on a business trip to Tajikistan. The visit included meetings with key officials from the Sughd and Khatlon regions, the Tajik Ministry of Agriculture, members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and local entrepreneurs.
The delegation also visited agricultural enterprises, vacant land areas, and facilities involved in processing agricultural and food products in these regions. This trip resulted in agreements in the agricultural sector, leading to a considerable increase in trade between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
By the end of 2023, the total trade volume of agricultural and food products between the two countries amounted to $60.6mn. Uzbekistan's exports to Tajikistan reached $55.8mn, while imports from Tajikistan totaled $4.8mn. The exported products included a variety of items such as animal feed, fruits, vegetables, eggs, confectionery, live animals, oilseeds, meat products, and beverages. Conversely, imports consisted mainly of animal feed, live animals, fruits, vegetables, beverages, and confectionery products. Recognizing the importance of quality seeds and innovation in agriculture, both countries aim to enhance productivity and ensure bountiful harvests.
As a demonstration of the growing cooperation between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, a project to establish a "Friendship Park" spanning 20 hectares in the city of Gissar is underway. The project, funded by the Uzbek Ministry of Agriculture at a cost of $300,000, began in May 2023 with the planting of intensive apple tree seedlings on 6 hectares. Currently, 22,000 seedlings have been delivered for the remaining 14 hectares, with ongoing planting efforts. Additionally, in Dushanbe, Pillai Tojik initiated a silk production project worth $5mn in December 2023, importing machinery from Uzbekistan and China and training Tajik workers.
Furthermore, collaborative endeavors include the establishment of a poultry feed production plant, rice cultivation, sheep breeding projects, and fruit and vegetable processing for export. These initiatives aim to bolster economic ties and foster mutual prosperity between the two nations.
An interdepartmental Road Map for 2024-2026, focused on expanding agricultural cooperation, has been developed and will be signed during an official visit to Tajikistan in April. This cooperation not only enhances economic development and job creation but also contributes to regional peace, stability, and security. Joint agricultural efforts play a crucial role in strengthening the friendly and mutually beneficial relations between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
Reported by Daryo (Uzbekistan).
