Putin and Rahmon Discuss Counter-Terrorism and Migration Cooperation

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon to discuss cooperation in combating terrorism and addressing migration issues. The two leaders engaged in a constructive conversation, agreeing to enhance collaboration mechanisms among specialized ministries and agencies to counter terrorist threats and tackle challenges related to migrant workers coming to Russia, including those from Tajikistan.

Why this matters: The cooperation between Russia and Tajikistan on counter-terrorism and migration issues has significant implications for regional stability and security, particularly in the context of rising global terrorism threats. Effective collaboration between the two countries can also set a positive precedent for addressing similar challenges in other regions.

The presidents emphasized the importance of close coordination between law enforcement agencies and special services in combating terrorism, extremism, and transnational organized crime. They expressed confidence that attempts to exploit migration issues for political purposes would be effectively countered and would not harm the relationship between the two countries. Putin and Rahmon pledged to jointly address recent efforts to stir tensions surrounding migrant workers, safeguarding the enduring fraternal ties between the Russian and Tajik peoples.

The phone call comes after days of tension between Russia and Tajikistan over new Russian checks on Tajik citizens, introduced following the March 22 attack on a Moscow concert hall that killed 145 people. Tajikistan has claimed that the new security measures have targeted its citizens. On April 30, Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin held a phone conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, emphasizing that such treatment does not correspond to the principles of bilateral relations.

During the call, Putin invited Rahmon to participate in the upcoming informal meeting of the CIS heads of state in Moscow and events commemorating Victory Day. Russia and Tajikistan have a long history of cooperation, with Russia being a key economic partner and security ally for the Central Asian nation. Tajikistan hosts a Russian military base and is a member of the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization.

The constructive phone call between Putin and Rahmon signals a commitment from both sides to defuse tensions and strengthen cooperation on critical issues of counter-terrorism and migration. As the two countries work to address recent challenges, their long-standing partnership and shared interests in regional stability will be crucial in overcoming obstacles and fostering closer ties between Russia and Tajikistan.

Key Takeaways

• Russia's Putin and Tajikistan's Rahmon discuss counter-terrorism and migration in a phone call.
• Leaders agree to enhance collaboration to combat terrorism and address migrant worker issues.
• The cooperation aims to counter terrorist threats and prevent the exploitation of migration for political purposes.
• Tensions over Russian checks on Tajik citizens eased after phone calls and previous diplomatic efforts.
• Putin invites Rahmon to CIS heads of state meetings and Victory Day events in Moscow.