Mirsaid Rahmonov
Excellent Worker of Culture / Senior Researcher at the Department of Southeast Asia, Institute for the Study of Asian and European Problems,
National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan (AMIT)
Modern Tajikistan, by gaining Independence and establishing a school of peace and constructiveness, has successfully forged multifaceted relations with the countries of the world, particularly within the framework of regional and trans-regional organizations and forums, and continues to sustain them under the guidance of the President of the country, Emomali Rahmon. The country stands as an active and leading state in the international arena, continuously combating contemporary threats and challenges, and playing a pivotal role in ensuring regional and global security.
Since the early days of independence, Central Asia has established close and favorable relations with the South Asian region. Bound by shared literary, cultural, linguistic, and historical ties, alongside joint projects and programs for the development and exchange of vast natural potential, and through their constructive initiatives, they play a strategic role in addressing various global issues.
In this context, Tajikistan is among the countries that maintain close geographical proximity and diplomatic relations with all nations of the world, particularly in Asia, and actively participates in summits and meetings within the framework of regional organizations. Furthermore, culture constitutes one of the primary dimensions of the country’s relations, providing a solid foundation for the development of cultural or public diplomacy among nations. Accordingly, the development of Tajikistan’s culture, art, and craftsmanship within regional and trans-regional organizations and forums—specifically the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)—has been highly successfully established with countries in the region, including Pakistan and Iran. Diplomatic relations between Tajikistan and Iran were established on January 9, 1992, and commenced with the opening of embassies in the cities of Dushanbe and Tehran.
In this context, Tajikistan shares a close geographical proximity with Pakistan. Diplomatic relations between the two states were established on June 6, 1992, and the Pakistani embassy in Dushanbe was opened in 1993. Iran and Pakistan were among the first countries to recognize the independence of Tajikistan. Consequently, all three countries are active members of the United Nations, expanding and strengthening their relations across various dimensions, particularly geocultural development, within the framework of regional organizations, especially the SCO and ECO. Tajikistan is one of the founding and active members of the SCO, and with the admission of Pakistan in 2017 and Iran in 2021, the relations among these nations have been further enhanced and improved. It is worth noting that Iran obtained observer status in the SCO in 2005 and was accepted as a full member during its official summit in Dushanbe in 2021.
In this context, a friendship center has been established at the initiative of the member states, providing a foundation for the development of cultural diplomacy. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Friendship and Cooperation Centers also operate in the cities of Dushanbe and Islamabad, strengthening geocultural diplomacy among these nations through diverse cultural and artistic programs, roundtables, conferences, and other scientific events. The primary objective of the Center is to provide information regarding the history of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and its member states.
The Economic Cooperation Organization, known as ECO, was established on the initiative of Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey following the signing of the Treaty of Izmir. In 1992, Tajikistan, along with Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, became a member of this organization. The headquarters of this regional organization is located in Tehran, Iran, which contributes to the development of various fields, particularly the geocultural advancement of the member states.
It is worth noting that culture is the foundational basis of the human way of life, possessing an inseparable connection with human history, and it expands and matures alongside the development of human consciousness and spirituality. It is a creation of human beings themselves, through which people not only sustain their needs and existence but also transform their natural and social environment, completely changing themselves in the process. Throughout human history, culture has encompassed all facets of the lives of individuals and society, developing and flourishing in step with the level of progress and human creative power.
The esteemed President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, constantly emphasizes in his addresses, meetings, and consultations that culture is the essence of every nation; therefore, all available opportunities must be utilized to further develop national culture and preserve national heritage, traditions, customs, and values. Indeed, the revival of the spiritual heritage of ancestors, the preservation of historical monuments, the promotion of national culture, and the globalization of ancestral celebrations and rituals are considered profound humanitarian endeavors.
Cultural and educational relations are considered an important factor in strengthening multilateral cooperation, and organizing cultural days among member states, including Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Iran, will expand the foundations for geocultural development. In March 2017, during the 13th Summit of the Heads of State of the ECO member countries in Islamabad, Pakistan, the “ECO Vision 2025” document was adopted.
Within this framework, the current status and prospects for strengthening relations among Tajikistan, Iran, and Pakistan as partners in development, friendship, and mutual understanding were reviewed. The enhancement of relations and regional integration in economic, trade, cultural, and artistic domains among the member states are considered pivotal issues, which are implemented in light of the “National Development Strategy of the Republic of Tajikistan for the Period up to 2030.”
In December 2024, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan, Sirojiddin Muhriddin, attended the two-day 28th meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) member states in Iran. In the presence of Pakistan’s representative, ways to expand cooperation were further explored, and cultural and social activities were reviewed.
According to available sources, the ECO Cultural Institute (ECI) was established at the initiative of the ECO, providing vast capacities for strengthening and expanding cultural and artistic cooperation among ECO member states, particularly Iran, Tajikistan, and Pakistan. The revival and establishment of this cultural institution among ECO countries is outlined in Article 2 of the Treaty of Izmir, which aims to “strengthen cultural ties and spiritual and fraternal relations among the peoples of the member states through social and cultural channels of thought and action.” The activities and development of the ECO Cultural Institute were reviewed during the third summit of ECO heads of state, held on March 14–15, 1995, in Islamabad, and the city of Tehran was selected as its headquarters.
The ECO Cultural Institute serves as an initiating, coordinating, financing, and monitoring body that implements cultural activities to strengthen and promote closer relations and cooperation among the people of the region as a whole, and media professionals, intellectuals, and artists in particular. Its core mission is to foster tighter ties and mutual collaboration within the regional populace, specifically bringing together the media, intelligentsia, and creative communities.
It is worth mentioning that cultural weeks of the member states, including Tajikistan, Iran, and Pakistan, are organized on various dates, featuring the participation of cultural and artistic figures and the showcase of national achievements. During these events, artists perform and display their work across various fields of visual and performing arts, including calligraphy, miniature painting, calligraphic painting, pottery, cotton embroidery, carpet and rug weaving, Shahnameh recitations, Mevlana (Rumi) recitations, Zurkhaneh and Pahlavani sports, alongside performances by various classical music ensembles.
Thus, its objectives include conducting research on the shared cultural heritage of the countries in the region to strengthen the perception of their inseparable unity and revive traditions; publishing research findings in the form of books, monographs, and periodicals in English and regional languages; coordinating cultural exchange programs such as visits by scholars, educators, writers, artists, guests, prominent personalities, students, youth, and members of women’s organizations; promoting cooperation among universities and other cultural institutions in the region; exchanging scholars in the field of culture; and organizing educational, literary, and cultural events and exhibitions that reflect the cultural and social life of the people of the member states.
Furthermore, it assumes responsibility for the ECO Awards in the fields of literature and visual arts. This program is implemented annually, and the regulations for the ECO Award are developed by the Cultural Institute.
It should be noted that the ECO Cultural Institute was established with the aim of expanding scientific and cultural relations among the member states, and according to the Tajik cultural scholar Shohmansur Shohmirzo, Tajikistan, Iran, and Pakistan are considered active members.
Accordingly, in cooperation with the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), a special issue of the “ECO Heritage” magazine was published in English with a circulation of 500 copies to highlight the achievements and tourism potential of Dushanbe and its selection as the tourism capital of the ECO region for 2020–2021. This served as an excellent platform to introduce Tajikistan to the global community, while facilitating the development of a unified regional tourism space and strengthening cooperation and friendship among the peoples of these nations.
In a significant step toward expanding cultural cooperation between the ECO Cultural Institute (ECI) and ECO member states, Dr. Saad S. Khan, during his visit to Tajikistan on August 5, 2024, met with Ms. Matlubakhon Sattoriyon, the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Tajikistan, resulting in the signing of a memorandum of understanding aimed at further broadening relations. Furthermore, at the proposal of the president of the ECO cultural institution, a photo exhibition featuring ECO member states was organized to attract tourists on the sidelines of the international book fair in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. The primary objective of the exhibition was to expand joint artistic and cultural cooperation among ECO member countries, including Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Iran.
Accordingly, at the initiative of the ECO Cultural Institute, the Institute for Peace and Diplomatic Studies of Pakistan, in cooperation with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), organized an exhibition titled “The Priceless Serenity of Calligraphy and Art” in the first half of January 2025 to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the member states. The exhibition was officially inaugurated by the Secretary-General of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).
The event showcased artistic masterpieces, calligraphic treasures, and works by renowned artists from ECO member states, including Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. During the ceremony, it was emphasized that the unique cultural diversity of the ECO region represents the greatest strength of its member states, serving as a communicative bridge between civilizations and a cornerstone for peace, prosperity, and mutual respect. Dr. Farhat Asif, President of the Institute for Peace and Diplomatic Studies of Pakistan, also highlighted the transformative potential of cultural diplomacy in building bridges between nations, emphasizing that “art and culture are fundamental tools for fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and cooperation among diverse societies.”
In continuation, the President of the ECO Cultural Institute, Dr. Saad Khan, emphasized the importance of showcasing regional artistic achievements, noting that the ECO cultural institution considers the strengthening of cultural ties among Tajikistan, Pakistan, Iran, and other countries in the region to be essential under current conditions. Meanwhile, Rana Ehsan Afzal Khan, the Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, stated that cultural harmony is the cornerstone of sustainable regional integration, creating a foundation for the continuation of dialogue and joint efforts to preserve and promote the shared heritage of ECO member states. He also emphasized the commitment of the Government of Pakistan to the ECO vision and its role as a bridge between South and Central Asian countries, stressing that cultural heritage is not only a source of pride but also an important instrument for strengthening peace, dialogue, and cooperation among member states.
Muhammad Asif Noor, the founder of Pakistan’s Institute for Peace and Diplomatic Studies (The Diplomatic Insight Group), also underscored the importance of organizing such events, highlighting the exceptional painting artistry of Hassan Nasir Jami, which plays a significant role in advancing Pakistan’s cultural diplomacy profile internationally and strengthening global cultural ties. The exhibition showcased beautiful calligraphy and intricate crafts from across the ECO member states, each reflecting the unique cultural identity and heritage of its country of origin. The artistic mastery of the renowned Pakistani calligrapher Azim Iqbal was prominently displayed alongside other distinguished works, fostering shared values and traditions among ECO countries and binding them together. Such exhibitions are considered vital, fostering a deeper respect and appreciation for the artistic craftsmanship and cultural heritage of the ECO region.
Most of the seminar participants emphasized the critical role of cultural diversity in strengthening regional unity and integration. The discussions primarily centered on leveraging the rich cultural heritage of the ECO region to foster mutual understanding, regional harmony, and shared prosperity.
Majid Mushki, the Cultural Counselor of the Iranian Embassy in Pakistan, spoke on the deep historical and cultural ties between his country and the ECO member states, highlighting the unifying power of art—particularly the craft of calligraphy—as a means of advancing dialogue and comprehension across cultural boundaries.
Dr. Samina Yasmin Amin, Head of the Department of Pakistan Studies, provided a scholarly analysis of the role of education in promoting cultural understanding, emphasizing the necessity of integrating cultural studies into educational curricula to nurture a sense of shared identity among future generations.
The author of these lines actively participated in the seminar, sharing perspectives on the geocultural role of Tajikistan and the importance of preserving historical monuments and traditions as a legacy for future generations, through which the cultural heritage of ECO member states can better facilitate a strong foundation for regional integration. It was emphasized that the artistic heritage of the region is not only a source of pride but also a vital instrument for strengthening peace, dialogue, and cooperation among the member states.
In conclusion, the member states of the ECO, including Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Iran, consistently emphasize the development of multifaceted relations—particularly cultural diplomacy—and actively contribute to regional integration and the organization’s regional advancement. Thus, Tajikistan’s mutually beneficial relations with Iran and Pakistan within the framework of regional organizations, especially the SCO and ECO, are expanding and being reinforced by the exchange of leaders, delegations, and figures from literature, art, and culture, paving an ever-greater path for the development of public diplomacy.
Furthermore, by utilizing their advanced best practices in the fields of peace, constructiveness, industry, travel, trade, tourism, and development, alongside their language, literature, culture, and abundant resources, these nations jointly expand their cooperation within the framework of the aforementioned forums and projects. This guides the development of various sectors, particularly the geocultural domain, while creating conducive conditions for establishing cooperation and advancing regional integration, thereby making a worthy contribution to the growth, prosperity, and well-being of the people.
In conclusion, in the light of wisdom, enduring peace, and security, Tajikistan has successfully established joint cooperation with ECO member states through specific elements and models. These include cultural promotion, economic progress, and the activation of effective approved projects and programs to overcome common threats and challenges. By guiding the region and the world toward constructiveness and peacebuilding, and leveraging its rich cultural, artistic, and civilizational heritage as well as unique historical discoveries, Tajikistan provides a solid foundation for the expansion and consolidation of regional integration, further expanding and reinforcing public diplomacy.
Дипломатияи геофарҳангии Тоҷикистон дар доираи созмони минтақавии ЭКО
Муаллифи мақола нақши ҳамкориҳои Тоҷикистонро бо кишварҳои узви ЭКО мариди таҳқиқ қарор дода, ҳамгироии минтақавиро муҳим арзёбӣ кардааст. Ҳамин тариқ, муаллиф таърихномаи созмони минтақавии ЭКО-ро мавриди баррасӣ қарор дода, узвияти кишварҳои Осиёи Марказӣ ба хусус Тоҷикистонро дар ин созмон муҳим шуморидааст. Зеро ин кишвар дар арсаи байналмилалӣ ҳамчун давлати фаъолу пешсаф буда, бо таҳдиду хатарҳои замони муосир пайваста мубориза намуда, дар таъмини амнияти минтақа ва ҷаҳон нақш асосӣ мебозад.
Дар ниҳоят муаллиф ҳамкории Тоҷикистонро бо созмони ЭКО муҳим дониста, амнияту сулҳу субот, фарҳангу иқтисод, фаъолсозии лоиҳаву барномаҳои муштарак баҳри раҳоӣ аз таҳдиду хатарҳоро заминаи хуб дар рушди дипломатияи мардумӣ мешуморад.
Калидвожаҳо: Тоҷикистон, ҳамкорӣ, сулҳу созандагӣ, ЭКО, ташаббускор, дипломатияи мардумӣ, геофарҳангӣ, амну субот ва ҳамгироӣ.
Рахмонов М.М
Геокультурная дипломатия Таджикистана в рамках региональной организации ЭКО Организация экономического сотрудничества
Автор статьи рассмотрел роль сотрудничества Таджикистана со странами-членами ОЭС и оценил региональную интеграцию как важную. Так, автор рассматривает историю региональной организации ОЭС и считает важным членство стран Центральной Азии, особенно Таджикистана, в этой организации. Потому что эта страна является активным и ведущим государством на международной арене, постоянно борющимся с угрозами и опасностями современной эпохи, и играет ключевую роль в обеспечении региональной и глобальной безопасности.
Наконец, автор считает важным сотрудничество Таджикистана с ОЭС, а безопасность, мир и стабильность, культуру и экономику, а также активизацию совместных проектов и программ по предотвращению угроз и опасностей рассматривает как хорошую основу для развития народной дипломатии.
Ключевые слова: Таджикистан, сотрудничество, мир и строительство, ОЭС, инициатива, народная дипломатия, геокультура, безопасность и стабильность, интеграция.
Rahmonov M.M
Geocultural diplomacy of Tajikistan in Athe framework of the ECO
The author of the article considered the role of Tajikistan's cooperation with ECO member states as a subject of research and assessed regional integration as important. Thus, the author reviewed the history of the ECO regional organization and considered the membership of Central Asian countries, especially Tajikistan, in this organization to be important. Because this country is an active and leading state in the international arena, constantly struggling with the threats and dangers of the modern era, and plays a key role in ensuring the security of the region and the world.
Finally, the author considers Tajikistan's cooperation with ECO to be important, and considers security, peace and stability, culture and economy, and the activation of joint projects and programs to get rid of threats and dangers to be a good basis for the development of people's diplomacy.
Keywords: Tajikistan, cooperation, peace and construction, ECO, initiative, people's diplomacy, geoculture, security and stability, and integration.