RAWALPINDI, PAKISTAN – In a high-level meeting at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, Colonel General Sobirzoda Emomali Abdulrahim, the Defence Minister of Tajikistan, called on Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Pakistan Army, to discuss deepening military-to-military cooperation. During the talks, both leaders emphasized regional security, bilateral defence cooperation, and a stronger focus on training and counter-terrorism initiatives.
Training, Counter-Terrorism and Regional Stability
Both Pakistan and Tajikistan expressed a resolve to enhance military-to-military collaboration … particularly in the areas of training, counter-terrorism, and regional security. Tajikistan’s defence minister praised the professionalism and operational readiness of the Pakistan Army, lauding its role in promoting regional peace. Meanwhile, COAS Asim Munir underscored the importance of collective regional efforts for stability and prosperity, renewing Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening defence ties.
Dosti-II Exercise
This latest visit builds on recent collaboration between the two countries. In August 2025, Pakistan and Tajikistan successfully concluded a joint counter-terrorism exercise called “Dosti-II” at Tajikistan’s Fakhrobod Base. The drill included Light Commando Battalion teams from Pakistan and special forces from Tajikistan, highlighting deepening operational cooperation.
Higher-Level Meetings Also Underway
Beyond the GHQ meeting, Colonel General Sobirzoda also met General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman of Pakistan’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), at the Joint Staff Headquarters. The talks covered a “wide range of matters,” focusing on expanding defence relations amid a challenging global and regional security environment.
Strategic Importance
Security analysts say this strengthening of Pakistan-Tajikistan defence cooperation is significant given that both countries share interests in counterterrorism, regional stability, and potential threats emanating from nearby conflict zones. Tajikistan, as a Central Asian country with a strategic geography, offers Pakistan a valuable defence partner while Pakistan provides deep combat and counterterrorism experience.
