Russian and Tajik presidents Vladimir Putin and Emomali Rahmon discussed the development of the situation in Afghanistan in a telephone conversation, the Kremlin press service reported on Tuesday.
"The heads of state discussed the latest development of the situation in Afghanistan and agreed to remain in close contact," the statement said.
Putin in a telephone conversation congratulated the leader of Tajikistan, who turned 69 on Tuesday, on his birthday. "In a telephone conversation, Russian president Vladimir Putin warmly congratulated Tajik president Emomali Rahmon on his birthday," the Kremlin said in a statement.
The leaders reaffirmed their mutual commitment to the all-round strengthening of Russian-Tajik relations of strategic partnership and alliance, the press service noted.
Earlier, Putin had sent a congratulatory telegram to Rahmon. "With many years of activity as head of state, you have earned well-deserved respect among compatriots and abroad. Under your leadership, Tajikistan has achieved significant successes in economic and social areas," the message reads, the text of which is published on the Kremlin website.
The Russian leader said he highly appreciated his colleague's efforts to strengthen the relations of strategic partnership and alliance between the two countries, as well as his contribution to ensuring security and stability in Central Asia. Putin also reiterated his willingness to continue the constructive dialogue and work closely together on topical issues on the bilateral and international agenda. "I heartily wish you, dear Emomali Sharipovich, good health, well-being and success," the Russian president concluded.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from TASS