Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, held an important meeting with the Ambassador of Tajikistan to discuss bilateral trade relations between Pakistan and Tajikistan. During the meeting, Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain highlighted the deep-rooted relations between the two countries and emphasized the need to further strengthen trade ties. The Tajik Ambassador expressed interest in utilizing the Gwadar and Karachi ports for exports and requested the resolution of logistical challenges. In response, Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain assured full cooperation in addressing any issues faced by the brotherly country. The meeting also covered Tajikistan’s keen interest in importing various Pakistani products. The Tajik side suggested organizing a trade exhibition to explore new business opportunities. Additionally, Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain held discussions on the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between both countries and the export of sugar to Tajikistan. Another significant point of discussion was the need for direct flights between Pakistan and Tajikistan to facilitate trade and economic cooperation. Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain assured that both countries would work together to provide necessary facilities to enhance bilateral trade. Furthermore, the Minister reiterated the importance of previous agreements between the two countries. The 6th Session of the Pak-Tajik Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) was held in July 2019, where both sides agreed to form a Joint Working Group (JWG). Pakistan had proposed holding the first JWG meeting in September 2024 in a virtual format, but no response was received from the Tajik side. The Ministry has again proposed dates for April 2025, and a response is awaited. As a way forward, the Ministry of National Food Security & Research will reiterate its proposal through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the inaugural JWG meeting on agriculture in a virtual format. Tajikistan’s interest in Pakistan’s sugar exports and other products will also be further explored to enhance trade between both nations.
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