Najam uddin Sheikh (Former Foreign Secretary): The bilateral relations between Pakistan and Tajikistan  are of much importance, and the recent visit of Tajikistan President will be helpful in furthering ties Dushanbe and Islamabad. Pakistan’s trade relations with central Asian states are directly linked with peace in Afghanistan, and Prime Minister Imran Khan has rightly said that political settlement in Afghanistan after the US withdrawal is of vital importance both for Pakistan and Tajikistan.  Peace and stability in Afghanistan is in the best interest of Pakistan.

Abdul Basit ( Former Ambassador):

The recent visit of President of Tajikistan is of immense importance.  Although, Pakistan and Tajikistan have already better bilateral ties in diverse fields, but is high time to further boost these relations. There is a great potential of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Tajikistan.

In Indian Illegal Occupied Kashmir, the Indian steps on August 5, 2019 are illegal and violation of international laws, and these steps cannot be justified. Although, there are more than 100 petitions were pending in Indian Supreme Court against these steps taken by New Delhi, but we cannot expect justice from the Indian apex court.

Furthermore, it is high time to do more efforts to highlight Kashmir issue at all international forums, and it is suggested that Pakistan should appoint Special envoy for Kashmir issue.

Dr. Farooq Hasnat ( I. R Expert):There are a lot of opportunities present in furthering relations between Pakistan and Tajikistan in different avenues. Central Asian states came into being after the disintegration of Russian Federation. Tajikistan is rich with natural resources including petroleum, gold, uranium, silver, tungsten, zinc and lead. The country also has natural gas, oil and coal reserves and more than 400 mineral deposits.  Islamabad and Dushanbe have immense potential of cooperation in energy sector, and  Pakistan can overcome its energy crisis with the help of Tajikistan. However, the trade ties with Central Asian states including Tajikistan are directly linked with peace in Afghanistan.