The Speaker of the Majlisi Milli (Tajikistan’s upper chamber of parliament), Rustam Emomali, has highlighted the importance of expanding joint ventures with Russia.

He noted this during the opening of the inter-parliamentary forum "Russia-Tajikistan: Potential for Interregional Cooperation," which took place in Dushanbe on October 10.

Russia’s news agency RIA Novosti reports that Emomali stressed the need to increase joint enterprises in areas such as industry, healthcare, and construction.  He reportedly noted that cooperation at the regional level is a key area that requires development to stimulate investment projects and boost trade turnover.

Emomali also emphasized Tajikistan's interest in deepening its strategic partnership with Russia, underscoring that relations with Russia are a priority for the country and expressing confidence in mutual interest.  He stated that Tajik-Russian relations have made significant progress in various fields, including politics, security, economy, science, and education.

It is worth recalling that earlier, the head of the Federation Council (Russia’s upper house of parliament), Valentina Matviyenko, also noted that cooperation with Tajikistan at the parliamentary and regional levels has traditionally been a priority of Russia’s foreign policy.  She emphasized that the strategic partnership between the two countries is fostered by the trusted relationship between the presidents of Russia and Tajikistan.

Matviyenko mentioned ongoing practical efforts to develop unified approaches to pressing international and regional issues, as well as the importance of independent election monitoring.  She highlighted the interregional cooperation, pointing out that over 70 Russian regions maintain direct trade and economic ties with Tajikistan.

In addition, she proposed that the inter-parliamentary commission monitor the effectiveness of agreements to enhance their impact and strengthen regional ties.  Matviyenko also noted the successful cooperation in education, science, and culture, mentioning events such as the Days of Tajik Culture in Russia and similar events in Tajikistan.