Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited Tajikistan to improve relations following years of tension. He emphasized shared cultural ties and the potential for enhanced cooperation in various fields. Pezeshkian is set to meet with Russian President Putin after his visit, indicating a broader strategy for Iran in Central Asia amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
On Thursday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited Tajikistan to strengthen relations with the Central Asian nation, marking a notable thaw after years of tension. Despite shared linguistic and cultural foundations, ties between Tehran and Dushanbe have been strained since the Tajik civil war in the 1990s. President Pezeshkian expressed affection for Tajikistan, stating he felt a deep connection there, akin to that in Iran.
The Iranian leadership recognizes the importance of enhancing its presence in Central Asia, a region where significant influence belongs to Russia and China. In light of geopolitical dynamics, including Turkey and Western nations also seeking influence, Iran’s engagement is viewed as crucial amid the evolving situation following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The five Central Asian states, including Tajikistan, were once part of the Soviet Union until its dissolution in 1991. Pezeshkian emphasized that the two nations could bolster their cooperation significantly across various sectors, including education, science, culture, politics, and security. Following his visit to Tajikistan, Pezeshkian is scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to enter a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, a development causing concern in Western circles.
The presidency of Tajikistan remarked that Pezeshkian’s visit heralds a new chapter in the history of bilateral relations grounded in linguistic and cultural ties. Although geographically separated by Afghanistan, both nations share the Persian language. Nonetheless, their diplomatic relations have been cool due to accusations of Iranian support for Islamist factions during Tajikistan’s civil conflict and alleged ties to banned Islamist political parties in Tajikistan, which maintains a secular stance.
Efforts to mend relations began under the late former president, Ebrahim Raisi, and have continued under President Pezeshkian’s administration.
The recent visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Tajikistan signifies an important diplomatic thaw between the two nations, which have endured a difficult relationship since the Tajik civil war in the 1990s. Despite their shared Persian language and cultural overtones, Iran and Tajikistan’s relations have been strained by historical grievances and geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding the influence of extremist ideologies within the region. As Iran seeks to expand its influence in Central Asia amidst competition from global powers, this engagement is particularly significant.
In summary, President Pezeshkian’s visit to Tajikistan is a pivotal step towards enhancing bilateral relations after decades of strained interactions. It signifies Iran’s strategic objective to solidify its position in Central Asia while addressing historical grievances. This renewed commitment to cooperation spans multiple domains, which, if successfully pursued, could lead to improved stability and partnerships in the region.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
