Tajikistan is actively seeking support from Russia and regional security alliances to address escalating violence along its border with Afghanistan.
The Central Asian nation is in discussions about deploying Russian troops to jointly patrol the volatile frontier, following recent deadly attacks that have claimed the lives of five Chinese citizens and wounded five others near the border.
President Emomali Rahmon convened security officials to evaluate the situation, with China advising its citizens involved in mining and business activities to leave the border region promptly. Tajik security sources revealed that talks with Russia are underway regarding the potential deployment of forces from Moscow’s military base in Tajikistan, Russia’s largest overseas military facility situated near Dushanbe.
Sources indicate that a decision on the deployment, which could include helicopter patrols along the 1,344-kilometer mountainous border, may be announced within the week. The proposed cooperation aims to bolster border security amid increasing threats from insurgent groups operating from Afghanistan.
The Moscow-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) is also reportedly involved in the discussions, although official comments from the organizations remain pending. Meanwhile, Tajik and Russian defense ministries have not publicly commented on the negotiations.
In a sign of improving relations, the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have expressed willingness to cooperate with Tajikistan on border security issues. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi assured Tajik officials of Kabul’s readiness to enhance coordination, conduct joint investigations, and tighten border security measures.
He emphasized that a recent atmosphere of trust between the two nations should be maintained to ensure regional stability.
As tensions mount, Tajikistan’s move to seek regional and Russian support underscores the growing concerns over security along the border with Afghanistan, which remains a hotspot for insurgent activity.
