RFE: Russia Pledges Support For Tajikistan Amid Concern Over Afghanistan
President Vladimir Putin says Russia is working on strengthening its military base in Tajikistan to boost regional security as the situation escalates in Afghanistan.
During a meeting with his Tajik counterpart Emomali Rahmon on May 8, Putin also said that Russia helps to “strengthen Tajikistan’s armed forces.”
Rahmon raised concerns over the rising tensions in neighboring Afghanistan since the United States' announcement last month that it will pull out all remaining American troops by September 11.
"I know you are concerned about this situation… For our part, we are doing everything we can to support you," Putin told Rahmon.
Tajikistan hosts about 7,000 troops from Russia’s 201st Motor Rifle Division that are stationed in three facilities.
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Update: Putin pledges support for Tajikistan as Afghanistan concerns mount -RIA (Reuters)
WNU Editor: Tajikistan shares a border with Afghanistan, and the consensus in Moscow is that it is only a matter of time before the Taliban control Afghanistan. Moscow also expects the Taliban in Afghanistan will try to spread their Islamic revolution to other countries. Tajikistan included.
