Waheed Ahmed (former Ambassador): Pakistan and Tajikistan have a very long history of brotherly relations. Unfortunately, they are unable to utilize the true potential of trade and commerce opportunities. The TAPI gas pipeline project can overcome the energy crises in the country but due to some hurdles the project has not yet been materialized. However, the good news is that understanding between both sides exists. The Prime Minister is trying his level best to strengthen trade and economic relations with Central Asian States including Tajikistan. The government needs to present a concrete plan of action to take the friendship of both the countries to new heights in terms of trade and economic relations.

Mirza Ikhtiyar Baig (MNA, Economist): The Central Asian States are producers of quality cotton and also rich in oil and gas reserves. So there is huge trade potential for Pakistan with the Central Asian States. There is a dire need to initiate a corridor with the support of Russia and Afghanistan that will reduce the distance of Pakistan and Tajikistan through Afghanistan for trade purposes. The Tajik President is a very humble man and has respect for Pakistan as well. The government is making all out efforts to strengthen the economic relations with other countries. The prudent economic policies of the government are on the right track and we are hopeful that the economy will be stabilized. We need to increase our exports and Foreign Direct Investment to get rid of the IMF program. The government needs to take concrete measures in order to bring more people into the tax network.