Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Tajikistan’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Ramazon Rahimzoda, yesterday held high-level talks in Tehran on strengthening bilateral cooperation in security, regional stability, and the fight against transnational threats, according to Iran’s Embassy in Dushanbe.
The meeting reportedly took place on the sidelines of during the 4th Ministerial Session of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), held on October 28 in the Iranian capital. According to the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Tajikistan, the discussions centered on counterterrorism, anti-smuggling measures, and combating organized crime.
Minister Rahimzoda emphasized the importance of close cooperation between Dushanbe and Tehran, stating: “We consider Tehran our second home, and the people of Tajikistan hold deep affection and respect for Iran.”
President Pezeshkian reportedly echoed the sentiment, highlighting the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations. He proposed exploring the idea of a regional currency to further strengthen economic integration among ECO member states.
He also stressed the need for unity among Islamic countries, warning of external efforts to sow discord and hinder regional partnerships.
“If we stand united, we will be strong. If not, we will grow weaker,” said Pezeshkian, adding that Iran and Tajikistan could build a shared future based on their common language, culture, and history.
He concluded the meeting by sending warm greetings to Tajik President Emomali Rahmon.
Meanwhile, the fourth Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Interior Ministers Meeting been officially opened in Tehran yesterday, with President Masoud Pezeshkian in attendance.
According to IRNA, the event was held at Tehran’s Summit Conference Hall, after a 15-year hiatus and in line with the government’s policy of engagement and developing cooperation with neighboring countries.
Ministers and senior officials from Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkiye, Uzbekistan, and the Islamic Republic of Iran, along with the ECO Secretary-General, the Interior Minister of Oman, and the Deputy Interior Minister of Iraq as guests, attending the event.
In addition to addressing matters of security, law enforcement, and border policing, the discussion covered border diplomacy, economic and urban diplomacy, governors and municipalities, sister city relationships, and existing capacities in these areas.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Tehran Declaration, a comprehensive framework establishing shared commitments for future cooperation. The declaration addresses:
· Enhanced cross-border police cooperation
· Capacity-building initiatives among member states
· Collective action against terrorism and transnational organized crime
· Prevention of organized cross-border crime
· Regularized engagement to ensure ongoing dialogue
· Timely and efficient information exchange mechanisms
