Today, the Founder of Peace and National Unity — Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan His Excellency Emomali Rahmon met with the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Muhammad Ashraf Ghani on the sidelines of the CASA — 1000 summit at the government countryside residence Pugus.

The two leaders discussed issues pertaining to the development of bilateral cooperation in the areas of common interest.

The current visit of the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Tajikistan was assessed as a stable and reliable step in enhancing good-neighborly ties and historical friendship between the peoples of Tajikistan and Afghanistan.

It was stressed that the constant political contacts between the two states, including at the top level during the 25 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations have acquired a permanent character and are full of truly historical achievements.

The interstate partnership within the implementation of historic CASA-1000 project was called a vivid example of top-level interstate ties, and the direct participation of the Afghan President in the work of today’s summit was another evidence of the full support of this important regional project by the Government of Afghanistan.

The two leaders also discussed prospects for expanding trade, economic and investment ties, including in the context of implementing major projects in energy and transport infrastructure as well as joint and regional transit opportunities.

The two sides also exchanged views on further expansion of cooperation in ensuring security and stability in Afghanistan, the fight against terrorism, extremism, organized crime and the illegal drug trade as well as protection of common state border.

The President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani expressed his gratitude to the President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon for his constant efforts aimed at normalizing the military and political situation in Afghanistan, and stressed that the Afghan side in response to the attention and support of the Tajik side will always strive to ensure that the level and quality of interstate cooperation corresponds to the national interests of both states.
The meeting was held in an atmosphere of friendship and mutual understanding.