According to reports from Tajik media, the recent meeting between representatives of Tajikistan and China, aimed at expanding economic and trade cooperation, highlights the positive aspects of these partnerships. The reports emphasize China’s role as the second-largest trade partner of Tajikistan, playing a significant part in investments and the development of various economic sectors, including mining and energy. These collaborations, particularly through creating opportunities for foreign investors, are acknowledged as critical to Tajikistan’s economic growth.
However, the reports fail to address the issue of Tajikistan’s growing foreign debt, which has been exacerbated by extensive cooperation with China. As the primary source of investment for major projects in Tajikistan, China’s involvement raises concerns about the increasing debt burden on the country. Strategic sectors such as mineral extraction are increasingly dominated by Chinese investors, potentially jeopardizing the country’s economic independence.
Moreover, the reports omit the controversial topic of selling natural resources to foreign entities, which has sparked significant debate within Tajik society. Many believe that these partnerships not only fail to bring substantial benefits to Tajikistan’s development but also deepen the country’s dependency on China. Tajikistan’s public debt to China, which continues to rise annually, could lead to serious financial and political challenges in the future.
Overall, the reports from official sources tend to focus on the positive dimensions of the cooperation, while overlooking critical issues such as economic dependency and the risks associated with increasing foreign debt, which could pose significant threats to Tajikistan’s long-term stability.
Respectfully,
Tajik Youth for the Revival of Tajikistan
