Turkmenistan and Tajikistan discuss expanding trade, economic ties and transport connectivity while strengthening cooperation in sustainable development, political dialogue and regional stability as bilateral relations mark 35 years of independence.
Turkmenistan and Tajikistan discuss ways to expand trade and economic cooperation, improve transport connectivity and advance sustainable development during an international scientific and practical conference in Dushanbe. The discussions take place as both countries mark the 35th anniversary of their state independence in 2026.
The conference brings together officials and experts to examine cooperation across political, economic, scientific, educational and cultural-humanitarian areas. Participants also discuss the contribution of Turkmenistan and Tajikistan to stability and cooperation in Central Asia.
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Political dialogue and parliamentary diplomacy remain important components of the bilateral agenda. The two countries seek to maintain regular contacts and strengthen institutional cooperation while expanding practical engagement in areas that support regional economic development.
Trade and economic relations receive particular attention during the discussions. Both sides examine opportunities to increase bilateral commerce and develop cooperation in investment, transport, energy, agriculture, industry and construction. The focus reflects the growing importance of economic connectivity within Central Asia.
Transport connectivity is identified as a key area for future cooperation. Improved links between Central Asian economies can support trade flows, facilitate access to regional markets and contribute to broader economic integration. Sustainable development is also highlighted as an important foundation for long-term economic growth and regional prosperity.
Turkmenistan and Tajikistan establish diplomatic relations in 1993, while bilateral ties are elevated to a strategic partnership through a Strategic Partnership Treaty signed in 2017. In May 2023, the two countries sign a Declaration on Deepening Strategic Partnership during Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s state visit to Tajikistan, alongside 24 other cooperation documents.
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Economic cooperation has continued to develop through institutional mechanisms. Bilateral trade reaches $43.1 million in 2025, representing a 17.1% increase from the previous year. In 2026, the countries hold the 14th meeting of their intergovernmental commission on trade-economic and scientific-technical cooperation and the second meeting of the Turkmen-Tajik Business Council.
The latest discussions provide another platform for strengthening bilateral economic links while supporting wider regional cooperation. With transport, investment, energy, agriculture and industrial development forming part of the agenda, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan continue to build on their strategic partnership and seek practical avenues for deeper economic engagement.