The Chinese government is set to allocate over 424 million yuan for the construction of infrastructure for Tajikistan's Border Troops as part of a three-phase project. Exchange letters for the second phase have already been signed. The Tajik side is exempting the construction from taxes and duties, facilitating the cooperation.

China is not only funding the project but also overseeing the full cycle of work, including research, design, equipment and material supply, and dispatching engineers for installation. The total construction area spans 17,109 square meters, with an estimated cost of 569 million somoni (approximately $63.7 million), provided as a grant from China. The facilities will be equipped with office and residential furniture, computers, and essential utilities such as roads, water supply, sewage, and electricity.

This is not the first instance of such cooperation: during the initial phase in 2017–2018, 12 border facilities were built along the Tajik-Afghan border with Chinese funding. The new project has sparked discussions about potential Chinese military presence in the region, but Tajik officials have denied these rumors, stating they are unfounded.

The project was approved by Tajikistan's parliament on March 4 and could enhance China's influence in Central Asia. This collaboration holds both economic and strategic significance, potentially impacting regional stability.

Source: kun.uz