Iran’s Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh expressed in his meeting with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon on Tuesday the Iranian companies’ readiness to take an active role in Tajikistan’s infrastructure, housing, and urban development projects.The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Dushanbe International Investment Forum 2025, highlighted Iran’s efforts to deepen economic ties with Tajikistan despite the impact of Western sanctions.Madanizadeh proposed establishing special financial and banking mechanisms — including the use of national currencies, barter arrangements, and joint ventures — to expand cooperation between Tehran and Dushanbe while reducing the effects of sanctions.Iran has been under Western sanctions for decades over its nuclear program, which have mostly affected its oil and energy sectors.Madanizadeh said Iran’s technical and engineering firms have strong capabilities in implementing major infrastructure projects. “Iranian companies are prepared to actively participate in Tajikistan’s civil, power plant, road construction, housing, and urban development projects,” he said.The minister emphasized that strengthening the presence of these companies in Tajikistan would not only boost the country’s infrastructure but also transfer Iran’s engineering and technical know-how.Key areas of collaborationHe also outlined several key areas of collaboration, saying, “In the energy sector, cooperation in constructing hydropower plants, developing the Tajikistan-Afghanistan-Iran power transmission line, and expanding renewable energy projects are among the practical areas of partnership.”“In trade and banking, establishing direct payment channels, using national currencies, and creating reciprocal credit lines will play a major role in facilitating economic relations,” he added.“Iran is also ready to cooperate with Tajikistan in creating a joint science and technology park, developing knowledge-based companies, and advancing the digital economy.”Madanizadeh said Iran and Tajikistan could play a significant role in the regional supply chain across energy, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and engineering services, enhancing their joint economic position through shared capabilities.The Dushanbe forum opened on Tuesday with more than 1,000 participants from dozens of countries attending the event aimed at promoting investment opportunities across the region.$500m trade path focused on energyAddressing the forum, the Iranian minister said Iran and Tajikistan are moving toward a $500 million trade partnership centered on energy and technology.“This conference, focused on green investment, serves as a bridge for exchanging ideas and a gateway to a sustainable and prosperous regional future,” he said.Madanizadeh described the recent meeting between the presidents of Iran and Tajikistan as “a turning point” in bilateral relations, marked by the signing of 23 cooperation agreements worth half a billion dollars, demonstrating a strong determination to deepen economic engagement.“A shared vision for expanding trade beyond $500 million — supported by agreements in transportation, customs, fisheries, mining, and agriculture — has solidified the foundations of this partnership,” Madanizadeh noted.He added that Tajikistan, with its vast potential in green energy, mining, and water resources, provides a reliable base for investment.“Despite sanctions, Iran is ready to engage in regional cooperation, particularly with Tajikistan, in clean energy, digital economy, transportation, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and mining industries,” he said.“The world is on the verge of a digital transformation, and Iran — with its expertise in artificial intelligence and blockchain — is ready to share its experience with Tajikistan to develop technology and train specialists,” he added.Highlighting the historical roots of regional cooperation, Madanizadeh said, “Regional collaboration is rooted in the legacy of the Silk Road, and balanced development can only be achieved through stronger bilateral and multilateral ties.”He reiterated Iran’s commitment to strengthening brotherly, economic, and infrastructural relations with Tajikistan, offering new opportunities to deepen ties under current global and regional conditions. (ICE TEHERAN)

Fonte notizia: IRAN DAILY