ISLAMABAD : Staff Reporter + APP – The Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan gearing up for celebrations of Indedependence that is 09 Sep 1991. It is 34th Anniversary that is expected to become a memorable occasion in Islamabad for the rich traditions, centuries old heritage and close connections with South Asia including Pakistan.
The Embassy started the series of celebrations with a luncheon at the residence in diplomatic enclave Islamabad. Mr. and Mrs H.E Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir, Ambassador of the Republic of Tajikistan welcomed Ambassadors of Central Asian States (CARs) and Azerbaijan that was symbolic actually because all the states won their freedom in the same year from the same regime, former USSR.
Some close friends of Tajikistan, the Tajik Diaspora in Islamabad were also invited. The spacious hall of the residence was decorated with Tajik culture and colors. Delicious Tajik dishes were served for the taste of the participants. A traditional music and dance performance was also arranged for the amusement of the guests.
Ambassador of Azerbaijan, H.E Khazar Farhadov, Kazakhstan, Yerzhan Kistafin, Kyrgyzstan H.E Kylychbek Sultan, Turkmenistan, H.E Atadjan Movlamov, Uzbekistan H.E Alisher Tukhtaev and spouses graced the event with their presence. Director General Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan , Syed Ali Asad Gilani also attended the event. Group Chairman Gwader Chamber of Commerce Mr. Naveed Jan Baloch was also present.
Ambassador , H.E. Yusuf Sharifzoda, said that today is a significant day in the life of the People of Tajikistan and our Independence Day is celebrated annually on September 9th.
This date marks a significant historical event when Tajikistan officially declared its state independence on September 9, 1991, the Soviet of the Tajik SSR adopted the Declaration “On State Independence of the Republic of Tajikistan,” formally proclaiming the country as an independent and democratic state.
Historically, Tajikistan had rich ancient cultures with an enriching natural beauty.
Independence Day celebrations in Tajikistan include fireworks, military parades, concerts, mass games, and public festivities.
The President of Tajikistan, the Leader of the Nation, H.H Emomali Rahmon, will also address the compatriots with a congratulatory message on this day, and the holiday is a national holiday marked with patriotic pride, reflecting on Tajikistan’s journey to independence and its progress as a sovereign nation.
Ambassador said that the history of bilateral relations between Tajikistan and Pakistan began formally with the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, soon after Tajikistan gained independence. Since then, the two countries have signed numerous agreements to foster economic, political, and security cooperation, he said.
He said that key milestones include multiple high-level visits by presidents and prime ministers, signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering trade, investment, education, culture, and security, and efforts to enhance regional connectivity through road links like the Chitral-Ishkashim-Dushanbe route.
Tajik envoy said that trade relations have grown significantly, with a 62% increase in bilateral trade in 2024-25, reaching about $60 million, and Pakistan’s exports to Tajikistan surged by over in 2024, with the major export items being sugar and sugar confectionery, along with agricultural products and pharmaceuticals.
Tajikistan’s exports to Pakistan need to be enhanced by comparison, and both countries have focused on expanding trade, investment, particularly in energy and textiles, and improving transit routes, he said.
The Ambassador said that the Comprehensive Trade Framework includes agreements on trade cooperation (signed in 1992), promotion and protection of investments, and avoidance of double taxation.
Furthermore, the countries cooperate within multilateral frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO), he said.
