TEHRAN Iran and Tajikistan signed a roadmap to implement a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on standardization, aiming to deepen bilateral cooperation in technical and quality assessment fields.According to the National Standards Organization of Iran, the agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 17th meeting of the Iran-Tajikistan Joint Economic Committee by Mahmoud Reza Taheri, Deputy for Quality Assessment at Irans National Standards Organization, and Deputy Head of the Tajikistan Standards Agency.The roadmap outlines measures to implement the MOU, focusing on technical collaboration, removing trade barriers, holding expert training courses, enhancing metrology cooperation, and issuing joint certifications.
It is expected to boost trade facilitation and strengthen institutional ties between the two countries.Irans Minister of Industry, Mining and Trade Mohammad Atabak met with Tajikistans minister of industry and new technologies, on May 1, on the sidelines of Expo 2025 to discuss expanding industrial cooperation between the two countries.According to a statement from Irans Ministry of Industry, Atabak reaffirmed Irans readiness to supply Tajikistan with billets, rebar, and steel products as previously discussed.He added that Iran is fully prepared to meet Tajikistans needs in the chemical and food industries, offering to establish a mutually agreed mechanism for cooperation.Atabak emphasized that Tajikistans requestswhether for factory construction or product supplycan be carried out through bilateral agreements.
He noted that plans for the construction and equipping of pharmaceutical manufacturing plants will proceed once the two countries harmonize their standards.The minister also said that Tajikistans mining development program, including the creation of mining infrastructure and downstream industries, is entering preliminary stages of talks with Irans state-owned mining holding company, IMIDRO.Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian concluded his two-day official visit to Tajikistan in mid-January, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations with the signing of 23 agreements across various fields.The agreements, aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties, economic cooperation, and cultural exchanges, highlight the commitment of both nations to overcoming obstacles and expanding collaboration.
During the visit, Pezeshkian emphasized the potential for trade to exceed $500 million and announced plans for a joint economic commission meeting in the near future.Key moments of the visit included bilateral talks with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, focusing on fast-tracking joint projects and removing trade barriers.
The presidents hailed the agreements as a foundation for further cooperation in science, education, transportation, and agriculture.Pezeshkian addressed Tajik academic circles, stressing Iran's commitment to global health and rejecting violence and conflict.
The visit also featured discussions with top Tajik officials, including the prime minister and parliamentary leaders, to facilitate trade agreements, including a preferential trade pact.The visit culminated in a shared vision for deepened partnerships, with both countries expressing readiness to remove remaining barriers to trade and investment.Also, a high-ranking Iranian trade delegation, comprising members of Irans Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA) and led by Chamber Head Samad Hassanzadeh, departed Tehran for Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, on January 14.The delegation was accompanied by Irans Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Seyyed Reza Salehi Amiri, underscoring the multi-faceted nature of the visit, the ICCIMA portal reported.Upon arrival in Dushanbe, Iranian and Tajik economic leaders convened for a joint forum aimed at enhancing bilateral trade relations.
In this gathering, Hassanzadeh emphasized the extensive cultural and historical ties between Iran and Tajikistan as a foundation for deepening economic cooperation.
He highlighted key sectors such as petrochemicals, oil and gas, medical equipment, and tourism as areas ripe for collaboration.Beyond economic discussions, we can leverage our shared heritage in literature, science, and the arts to expand mutual ties.
Tajikistan offers a strategic platform for Iranian investors and businesses seeking to access Central Asian and Eurasian markets, Hassanzadeh stated.The forum witnessed the signing of several memoranda of understanding between Iranian and Tajik companies, paving the way for increased joint ventures.
Attendees also participated in one-on-one discussions to explore potential partnerships.
Hassanzadeh noted that Iranian businesses have the expertise to contribute to Tajikistans industrial development, including projects in steel production, refineries, and advanced technologies.Highlighting Iran's capabilities, the ICCIMA head remarked, We possess competitive pricing and innovative solutions, making us a strong partner for Tajikistan in sectors like engineering services and exports of building materials, agricultural products, and pharmaceuticals.Ahead of the trip, Hassanzadeh described Tajikistan as a strategic destination for Iranian investors.
The stable political and social relations between our nations, combined with the trust shared by our presidents, provide a solid framework for expanding bilateral trade, he told Iranian media.
He highlighted Tajikistans reliance on Iranian expertise and competitive exports as a key opportunity for growth in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and industrial development.With the Iranian delegations visit marking a new chapter in economic diplomacy, both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to leveraging cultural affinities for stronger economic ties.
Tajikistan remains a vital partner in Irans efforts to enhance its presence in Central Asia and beyond.EF/MA.
This article first appeared/also appeared in Tehran Times