By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo
The Embassy of Tajikistan in Seoul hosted a celebration for the country's 34th Independence Day on September 12, 2025. The event brought together Tajik citizens living and studying in the Republic of Korea, as well as Korean friends.
In his address, Ambassador Salohiddin Kirom congratulated his compatriots and highlighted the country's progress under President Emomali Rahmon's leadership. He stated that Tajikistan is "moving with firm steps towards its bright and prosperous future, in step with other developed countries."
The Ambassador also noted Tajikistan's growing international influence, crediting President Rahmon's global initiatives on critical issues like water resource and glacier preservation. As a testament to this, he pointed to the recent UN General Assembly resolution on artificial intelligence, which was adopted at Tajikistan's initiative.
Ambassador Kirom emphasized that Tajikistan continues to pursue an "open door" foreign policy, which is guided by key priorities in response to the changing landscape of international relations and modern global challenges.
Ambassador Kirom highlighted the existing friendly relationship between Tajikistan and the Republic of Korea, referencing a recent telephone conversation between Tajikistan's President Rahmon and South Korea's President Lee Jae-myung. This high-level exchange shows the commitment of both nations to strengthening their mutually beneficial cooperation.
Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon and South Korea's President Lee Jae-myung discussed strengthening relations between two countries. The two leaders focused on expanding cooperation in areas such as digitalization, industrialization, investment, labor migration, and education.
President Rahmon acknowledged the positive impact of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) on various social and economic projects in Tajikistan.
Following the call, President Lee Jae-myung shared a message on his X platform, expressing his pleasure with the conversation. He noted the historical ties between the two nations since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, referencing Tajikistan, which was at the at the heart of the Great Silk Road and is home to the Pamir Mountains, known as the “Roof of the World.”
It is also a land of historical heritage, where the monk Hyecho from the Silla era left valuable records during his pilgrimage. Both Presidents agreed to work closely together to ensure the success of the upcoming "Republic of Korea–Central Asia" summit to be held in South Korea next year.
During the event guests also had a chance to discover Tajikistan's ancient history, civilization, rich cultural tapestry, folk crafts, distinctive national costumes, and breathtaking tourist destinations.
A dedicated Tajik national cuisine corner, organized with the support of a Tajik restaurant in Yongin, where guests were offered with a diverse selection of delicious traditional dishes.
