China-Tajik relations to grow stronger

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Qingdao is expected to enrich joint work within the SCO framework with "meaningful" content, a senior Tajik diplomat told China Daily.

Hailing the summit as a "historic" event, Tajik Ambassador to China Parviz Davlatzoda said the gathering will inject new impetus into partnerships among SCO members and lay the groundwork for the organization's future development.

He praised China's work since Beijing assumed the rotating presidency of the SCO in June last year, saying the Qingdao summit will very likely conclude with "high-level" outcomes.

The ambassador also said that with India and Pakistan as full SCO members, the organization will turn a "qualitatively" new page in its future activities.

Noting the SCO has made great achievements since its inception in 2001, Davlatzoda said the ever-changing international situation and rising security challenges still require the organization to continue to make effective decisions.

"These decisions must ensure preservation of peace and security in the region, enhancement of sustainable development and improvement of the social well-being of our peoples," he added.

To this end, the ambassador said, the fundamental principles enshrined in the SCO Charter and the "Shanghai Spirit" must be consistently upheld. SCO members should further promote exchanges and cooperation while ensuring peace and stability in the region to secure common prosperity, he said.

Davlatzoda highlighted the importance of the alignment of Tajikistan's national development strategy for 2030 with China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, saying it has created significant potential for bilateral cooperation in the fields of trade and investment, infrastructure, industry, transportation as well as cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

Tajikistan attaches great importance to developing neighborly relations, friendship and cooperation with China, the ambassador said. "China is perceived in our country as a true friend and sincere partner, and we are pleased with its rapid progress and sustainable development," he added.