MOSCOW, Oct. 11 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia and Tajikistan are expanding cooperation across a wide range of areas, including security, energy and humanitarian exchanges, following his visit to Tajikistan this week.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Putin described Tajikistan as an important partner for both Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), noting Tajikistan's key role in maintaining regional stability.
"Tajikistan is located on the southern frontier of the CIS, and its stability is crucial for Russia's security," Putin said, adding that Russian border guards and troops continue to cooperate closely with Tajik counterparts to ensure safety along the Tajik-Afghan border.
Putin said Moscow and Dushanbe are actively developing joint projects in the energy sector, including hydropower, as well as in mining and agriculture. "Russian businesses are investing, joint ventures are being set up, and the cooperation is mutually beneficial," he noted.
Putin also highlighted humanitarian and educational ties as a very important part of bilateral relations, praising Tajik President Emomali Rahmon's initiative to open Russian-language schools in Tajikistan.
On labor migration, Putin said the establishment of representative offices of authorities for internal affairs and migration in each other's capitals helps regulate migration flows and reduce illegal migration. "When Tajik law enforcement representatives work together with Russian colleagues, it increases mutual trust and effectiveness," he said.
Putin arrived in Tajikistan on Wednesday for a three-day state visit, during which he and Rahmon signed a joint statement aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries as strategic partners and allies. ■
