DUSHANBE. October 12, 2022 /NIAT «Khovar»/. Today in Dushanbe, President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko received the Speaker of the Assembly of Representatives Mahmadtoir Zokirzoda.

During the meeting the two sides had an in depth discussion about bilateral relations and cooperation between Tajikistan and Belarus, including inter-parliamentary ties.

Zokirzoda emphasized that Tajikistan views Belarus as its reliable friend, strategic and loyal partner.

“Our people have a lot in common. I would even say they are identical: they are kind, hardworking, and talented. It is one of the reasons for our rather successful relations,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said, according to BelTA.

He also noted that he has known President Rahmon for more than a quarter of a century.

“This path was not easy for us. But last night I told him: We have been together for so long, but I don’t remember that we ever had a row or a dispute or even an argument. We have always held the same views on all issues. We have always supported each other. This is not because we are friends, but because we think absolutely the same. For me, he has always been an example of selfless service to his Motherland,” President Lukashenko emphasized.

He noted that the leaders of Belarus and Tajikistan are ready to show determination and to defend the sovereignty and security of their countries with weapons in their hands. And this is not just a statement. Lukashenko had to take up a gun in 2020 and Rahmon fought for Tajikistan in the early stages of its statehood.

“He did not back down after he was wounded. A true representative of the Tajik people. Therefore, he has always been an example of devotion and reliability for me. We have developed such good relations and these relations are based on the similarities between the Belarusian and Tajik people,” he continued.

Zokirzoda, in turn, said that the people of Tajikistan know the Belarusian leader as a wise politician and appreciate him for his openness. “When it comes to values, our people are the closest in the post-Soviet space. Tajikistan has found a reliable friend, strategic partner, kindred spirit in Belarus. Tajiks have the most candid and sincere feelings for Belarusians,” Zokirzoda stressed.