China, Tajikistan Strengthen Security and Economic Ties with Afghanistan in Focus

DID Press: In the first strategic dialogue between their foreign ministers, China and Tajikistan have agreed to expand security and economic cooperation, a move with direct implications for Afghanistan given its shared borders with both countries.

The meeting, held in Dushanbe, saw Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pledge to deepen “high-quality” BeltandRoad cooperation with Tajikistan and elevate their bilateral relations to a “comprehensive strategic partnership.” A major focus of the cooperation is securing shared borders and preventing the spread of terrorist groups.

According to Chinese media, Wang emphasized increasing joint border patrols and security coordination to block extremist infiltration, especially amid instability in parts of Afghanistan that could pose threats to the region.

Regionally, China expressed readiness to enhance coordination on Afghanistan and support its reconstruction and development efforts, signaling Beijing’s intent to stabilize Central Asia and mitigate threats emanating from Afghan territory.

Economically, China plans to boost imports of Tajik agricultural products, encourage greater Chinese investment, and develop transport and mining infrastructure to better connect the region and improve transit routes linked to Afghanistan.

Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin thanked China for its support, affirming Dushanbe’s commitment to implementing agreements and expanding cooperation at all levels. President Emomali Rahmon also met with Wang Yi, stressing the importance of the bilateral relationship amid a sensitive regional context.

As a neighboring country, Afghanistan stands to be affected by strengthened Beijing–Dushanbe collaboration, both in terms of border stability and regional economic connectivity.

Wang Yi had previously visited Tashkent to discuss Afghanistan-related issues with Uzbek officials, underlining China’s broader Central Asia engagement strategy.