The administration of Russia's Sverdlovsk Region is exploring various economic sectors to enhance cooperation with regions of Tajikistan, stated Alexey Shmykov, the First Deputy Governor of Sverdlovsk Region, at a meeting of the Russian-Tajik Business Council (RTBC).
"We are currently developing a strategic roadmap for Tajikistan, focusing on the modernization of hydro-technical structures, infrastructure projects, mineral processing, and the establishment of joint ventures," Shmykov said during the meeting's broadcast. In 2023, agreements were signed with the administrations of the Sughd Region and the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region of Tajikistan, identifying promising areas for further cooperation and engaging in systematic work with business representatives. He noted that the collaboration between the Russian region and Tajikistan includes projects in energy, mining, agriculture, science, and education. "Enterprises from Sverdlovsk Region are involved in the construction of the Rogun Hydropower Plant, modernization of emergency automation for all energy facilities in Tajikistan, mineral extraction, and land reclamation projects," Shmykov specified.
The deputy governor also highlighted the high demand for Tajik agricultural products in Sverdlovsk Region. "In March 2024, with the support of the regional government and the Russian Consulate General in Tajikistan, a store called 'TajBazar' was opened in one of Yekaterinburg's shopping centers, offering tea additives and dried fruits from Tajikistan," he shared, adding that the regional authorities are intensifying efforts in tourism, science, and education.
He cited the agreement between the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, signed in 2023. "About 1,500 Tajik students are studying in our region. The Ural Mining University plans to launch the 'Young Geologist' project, aimed at educating youth in geology and mining," Shmykov explained. He believes this project will increase young people's interest in these professions and prepare a skilled workforce for the real sector of the economy.
The RTBC meeting took place on the sidelines of the Tenth International Trade Fair "Sughd-2024," which began on June 18 in Khujand, the administrative center of Tajikistan's Sughd Region. The fair features over 500 domestic and international representatives from government and business, including those from Russia, showcasing products from various enterprises and companies. The fair will conclude on June 19.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Federation Council
Based on TASS materials