Tajikistan and the CSTO emphasized the urgent need to strengthen border security with Afghanistan following deadly incidents, highlighting that joint efforts are crucial for regional stability.

Emomali Rahmon met Imangali Tasmagambetov in Dushanbe to discuss security challenges linked to Afghanistan, focusing on efforts to reinforce Tajikistan’s southern border, The Caspian Post reports, citing foreign media.

Both sides described the implementation of a joint security programme as “vital” for Central Asia and member states.

The talks come after recent border violence in which Tajikistan authorities confirmed fatalities, prompting increased concern over cross-border threats. Rahmon has instructed security agencies to review and strengthen defensive measures along the frontier.

The Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) said its intergovernmental programme; approved in November 2024-is now being implemented, with initial steps including coordination among member states on supplying weapons, military equipment, and technical support to Tajikistan border forces.

Tasmagambetov also praised Tajikistan’s role in hosting and supporting joint military exercises, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve regional readiness and cooperation against emerging threats.

Tajikistan shares Central Asia’s longest border with Afghanistan, stretching over 1,300 kilometres, making it particularly vulnerable to instability spilling across the frontier.

With rising security concerns and continued warnings about militant activity in northern Afghanistan, regional cooperation remains central to preventing further escalation and maintaining stability.