Islamabad: Brig. (R) Farooq Hameed Khan, a defense analyst, emphasized the importance of bolstering strategic ties between Pakistan and Tajikistan, particularly in the realm of counter-terrorism, given the complex geopolitical landscape. Pakistan has long sought to strengthen relations with Central Asian countries, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) provides a platform for cooperation on various fronts, including counter-terrorism, regional security, economic-trade connectivity, and government-to-government relations.

According to Radio Pakistan, Tajikistan’s proximity to Afghanistan necessitates a focused effort on counter-terrorism, as Afghanistan is currently a hub of terrorist activities. Pakistan, being a significant victim of terrorism, faces increasing threats emanating from Afghan soil. The recent alliance between the Afghan Taliban and Indian entities has intensified these threats, complicating the security situation for Pakistan. This development underscores the need for Pakistan to coordinate closely with Central Asian states to mitigate terrorism. These countries should be encouraged to exert pressure on Afghanistan and India to cease supporting proxies in Afghanistan against Pakistan. Achieving regional trade connectivity and security is contingent upon addressing these issues.

It is noteworthy that Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently visited Tajikistan, marking a positive development in bilateral relations. For the first time, the Pakistan army participated in a military parade in Tajikistan, illustrating the strengthening ties. The Central Asian Republics are increasingly concerned about the potential threat posed by the Afghan Taliban regime to their security. Terrorist groups operating in Afghanistan and the recent visit of the Afghan foreign minister to India have created a dangerous nexus of terrorism involving India. This situation is alarming for Central Asian Republics, highlighting the urgency for Afghanistan to restore regional peace for its own economic progress. Interestingly, Afghanistan has advised its traders to seek alternative trade routes instead of Pakistan, despite Pakistan offering unparalleled facilities to Afghan traders.