DUSHANBE, November 5, 2009, Asia-Plus  -- The Government of China will continue supporting development of the transportation sector in Tajikistan because transport communication is foundation of expansion of bilateral cooperation between our countries, Chinese Ambassador to Tajikistan, Lu Guicheng, announced at an international seminar entitled “On the Path to Efficient Transportation Roads” in Dushanbe yesterday.

According to him, automotive transport plays a very important role in the economy of Tajikistan, which serves as interlink between Central Asia and Middle East due to its geographical location.  “However, due to a poor transportation infrastructure and complicated relief of Tajikistan, its transit potential has not yet been used in full,” said Ambassador Lu, “Therefore, development of the transportation infrastructure is one of priorities of activity of the Government of Tajikistan and the Government of China has decided to support Tajikistan in this direction.”

Since 2006, China has provided 260 million Yuan in grants to Tajikistan for implementation of project for construction of the Shar-Shar Tunnels.  China Railway Engineering Corporation has completed the project this year, Mr. Lu noted.  Besides, the Government of China has provided a $350 million preferential loan to Tajikistan for rehabilitation of the Dushanbe-Khujand-Chanak highway and the section of the highway from Dushanbe to Danghara.  China Road and Bridge Group has been implementing the projects.