DUSHANBE, January 17, Asia-Plus - Members of a Tajik official delegation and a large number entrepreneurs from the two countries attended a business and investment forum between Tajikistan and China that was held in Beijing on January 16, Abdufattoh Sharipov, a spokesman for the Tajik president, reported from Beijing.

President Rahmonov addressing the forum outlined priorities and main directions of bilateral mutually beneficial cooperation between Tajikistan and China.  The president noted that over the past five years alone, China has provided assistance to Tajikistan in a total amount of $630 million, including $30 million in grants, according to the spokesman. 

It as noted that at present some 50 joint projects are being implemented in Tajikistan with participation of capitals, technologies and experts from more than 40 Chinese companies and enterprises.  The largest of these projects is the reconstruction of the highway from Dushanbe via Khujand to Uzbek border.  The project includes the construction of the Shahriston tunnel, 37 large and small bridges.  China is also investing in the construction of the Shar-Shar tunnel, electric main South-North, as well as power-transmission line Lolazor-Obimazor in Khatlon.    

Rahmonov also noted that three free economic zones will be created in Tajikistan soon.  

China will strengthen business cooperation with Tajikistan through expanding trade and investment, Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi remarked, addressing the forum.  

Wu said the two sides should strengthen cooperation in resources development and increase trade in high-technology and high value-added goods.

She also called on the two countries to create open, transparent and secure conditions for bilateral investment. 

During the forum, entrepreneurs from the two countries established new contacts.  The Chinese were interested in hydropower, international tourism, and mining spheres, as well as aluminum production.