Tajik President Emomali Rahmon commenced a state visit to Kyrgyzstan on 12th March 2025, taking a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations between the two Central Asian countries. Upon arrival at Bishkek’s Manas International Airport, President Rahmon was warmly welcomed by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and presented with flowers. The ceremonial reception featured national flags, a red carpet, a yurt installation, a guard of honour, and traditional performances by Kyrgyz artists.
The primary objective of President Rahmon’s visit was to finalise and sign a historic border Delimitation and Demarcation Agreement. On 21st February 2025, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan reached an understanding of the delimitation agreement. This was announced in Bishkek, where the heads of the state security services of the two countries, Kamchybek Tashiyev of Kyrgyzstan and Saymumin Yatimov of Tajikistan, signed the protocol on border delimitation. Additionally, Tashiyev and Yatimov signed two other agreements- the first on the division of road transport infrastructure, and the other on water and energy resources.
This agreement aims to bring about long-lasting solution and peace between the two countries. The negotiations, which have been ongoing for several years, are expected to culminate in the signing of the agreement during this visit.
President Japarov addressed the meeting taking place at the Yntymak Ordo Presidential Administration Building, stating, “I am confident that the signing of the Treaty on the state border between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan will be a fateful historical event that will be received with enthusiasm by both the peoples of our countries and the wider international community. This step will make a significant contribution to strengthening security, stability and sustainable development not only of our states, but also of the entire Central Asian region.”
The successful resolution of the border issue is anticipated to pave the way for deeper bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including trade, energy, and regional security. It also sets the stage for a trilateral summit involving the presidents of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, scheduled for 31st March 2025, in Khujand, Tajikistan. This summit is expected to further strengthen regional ties and promote collaborative initiatives among the neighbouring countries.
Presidents Japarov and Rahmon launched the resumption of work at the Kyzyl-Bel and Kairagach checkpoints on the Kyrgyz-Tajik border.
“We held an online opening ceremony for two checkpoints,” said President Sadyr Japarov.
“In the coming period, the necessary measures will be taken for the high-quality development of trade and economic cooperation through the effective use of the economic potential of the two countries in this area,” he said.
President Rahmon visited Ata Beit Memorial Complex where he laid a wreath at the memorial and at the tomb of Kyrgyz novelist Chyngyz Aitmatov. A tribute prayer was also performed.
In summary, President Rahmon’s state visit to Kyrgyzstan signifies a pivotal moment in Central Asian cooperation, with the border agreement serving as a foundation for enhanced regional engagement and stability.
