The border demarcation agreement between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan has been widely welcomed by international organizations and governments, marking the end of a decades-long dispute that has led to periodic clashes along the shared frontier.
The treaty, signed by Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov on March 13 in Bishkek, aims to restore stability, foster cooperation, and promote regional development.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) hailed the signing as a “historic achievement” that enhances mutual trust and strengthens relations between the two nations. OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha congratulated both governments, saying the agreement “closes a chapter of long-standing disputes and provides a new impetus to cooperation and good neighborliness.”
The United States also praised the deal, with the U.S. Embassy in Kyrgyzstan calling it “a landmark agreement that underscores both nations’ commitment to diplomacy and regional stability.”
“Settling border disputes is one of the most difficult diplomatic tasks a government can undertake,” the embassy statement read. “We commend the vision and determination of both governments’ leaders and hope this agreement fosters trade, people-to-people ties, and long-term peace in the region.”
The United Arab Emirates echoed this sentiment, expressing hope that the treaty would contribute to “stability and constructive cooperation between the two countries.” The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to supporting peace efforts in the region.
Reopening of border crossings
As part of the agreement, the “Kairagach” and “Kyzyl-Bel” border checkpoints between the two countries have been reopened. The Kyrgyz-Tajik border had remained largely closed since May 2021 following violent clashes in the Batken region, which saw military engagement from both sides.
The resolution of the border conflict marks the culmination of over 30 years of negotiations. Experts believe the deal will have lasting implications beyond Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.
Tajik political analyst Parviz Mullojanov noted that this agreement stands as a rare example of a peaceful resolution to a prolonged territorial conflict. He emphasized three key benefits.
The agreement removes the risk of continued violence that had plagued both nations.
The agreement helps in redirecting resources from security expenditures to socio-economic development.
And it helps in creating a more favorable environment for large-scale infrastructure projects, such as new trade and transport routes linking East and West.
Despite optimism surrounding the deal, experts warn that sustainable peace will require continued diplomatic engagement, strong enforcement mechanisms, and trust-building efforts between communities on both sides of the border.
