Tajik President Emomali Rahmon has called for closer economic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Central Asian countries, highlighting opportunities for joint industrial, trade and energy projects.

Speaking at the 8th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asian Countries and Azerbaijan in Avaza, Rahmon said the region has significant potential to expand economic ties, according to Report.

He noted that the countries possess substantial natural and other resources, creating opportunities for joint projects, including the establishment of enterprises, industrial complexes and facilities for processing natural resources.

Rahmon also stressed the need to accelerate the adoption of digital and green technologies, promote innovation and make greater use of artificial intelligence.

He called for expanded cooperation in trade and services, increased production and export projects, and greater participation by small and medium-sized businesses.

The Tajik president also highlighted the importance of strengthening regional supply chains and sharing experience in adapting products to the environmental and technical standards of international markets.

In agriculture, Rahmon called for closer cooperation and stressed the need to ensure that agricultural producers have access to the resources they need during seasonal periods.

“This is directly important for the sustainability of agricultural production and strengthening the food security of our countries,” he said.

Turning to energy cooperation, Rahmon proposed developing a list of priority energy projects and establishing mechanisms for their joint financing.

He also renewed his call to explore the development and construction of a large oil refinery using advanced technologies, designed to help meet the needs of the entire region.