Pakistan and Tajikistan are advancing their strategic partnership with a renewed focus on energy and defence cooperation, following a high-level meeting where the resumption of the pivotal CASA-1000 power project was a central point of discussion.

The engagement between President Asif Ali Zardari and President Emomali Rahmon took place on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar today.

During the dialogue, President Zardari stated that Pakistan places great value on its multifaceted relationship with Tajikistan, which is rooted in common history, culture, and linguistic affinity. He reaffirmed his nation”s commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, connectivity, energy, and people-to-people exchanges.

The President noted that a Strategic Partnership Agreement, signed in 2024, signifies the growing depth of ties between the two nations. He welcomed the recommencement of work on the CASA-1000 project, describing it as a flagship initiative for shared prosperity.

Furthermore, President Zardari invited Tajikistan to explore new avenues for trade and connectivity through Pakistan, raising the possibility of restoring direct flights between the two countries.

In the realm of security, the President commended the successful Dosti-II joint military exercise conducted in August 2025. He reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to assist Tajikistan in defence cooperation and capacity building.

The two leaders also shared perspectives on regional and global issues of mutual concern.

The Tajik President extended an invitation to President Zardari to visit Tajikistan, which was accepted.

The meeting was also attended by First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Qatar.