Sunday, March 23, 2025

Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan Enter A New Era of Diplomatic Relations

 


Border clashes between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan have been taking place for over 30 years. These circumstances relate to how the Soviet Union divided Central Asia. When independence was granted as the result of the Soviet collapse in 1991, the new countries were in conflict. Between 2021 and 2022 the clashes between the two Central Asian states became more lethal. President Emomali Rahmon  and President Sadyr Japarov signed an agreement outlining what the defined borders would be. Since 2022, roads, railway, and air links were closed off. War or regional conflict only undermines the whole of Central Asia. This change in policy should be an example to all countries in the world. Conflict and war spreads while diplomacy is not given much consideration. The challenge is if Tajik and Kyrgyz  citizens will accept a peace settlement. Ethnic hatreds remain in particular areas. President Emomali Rahmon has ruled the country since 1994. Prior to this, he was Chairmen of the Supreme Assembly between 1992 to 1993. His power is immense being increased by constitutional referendums. President Rahmon has more power to maintain peace or disregard a peace settlement. President Sadyr Japarov does not have authoritarian power like other Central Asian leaders. Kyrgyzstan was during the 2000s rotating through various interim presidents. This was the result of the Tulip revolution. A change in administration could effect relations with Tajikistan. For now, the agreement to end hostilities remain intact.      

No comments:

Post a Comment