A meeting between the leadership of Tajikistan’s Main Geology Directorate under the Government of Tajikistan a delegation from Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Mining and Geology took place in Dushanbe on March 6 to discuss joint geological exploration efforts.

The press center of Tajikistan’s Main Geology Directorate says the main topic of discussion was expanding bilateral cooperation in geology.

The parties, in particular, considered the prospects of conducting joint geological exploration in the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) of Tajikistan.

Additionally, they reportedly explored the digitalization of geological data, the exchange of statistical information in electronic format, and the use of modern mineral exploration methods.

The Uzbek delegation’s visit to Tajikistan will continue until March 8.  During the trip, they plan to visit geological exploration sites and the Geological Museum of Tajikistan, which holds over 4,500 samples of rocks and minerals collected since 1939.

At the end of the visit, the two sides are expected to sign a cooperation protocol, outlining further steps in developing joint geological research.

 

Tashkent’s interest in Tajikistan’s mineral resources

Tajikistan and Uzbekistan’s cooperation in geology dates back to a 2018 intergovernmental agreement.  As part of this agreement, the two countries have already launched joint studies in border areas, as well as scientific data and technology exchanges.

Key priorities include:

 

  • Exploration of oil and gas fields
  • Study of lead-zinc ores and phosphorites
  • Surveying underground water reserves

 

In autumn 2024, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Mining and Geology, Bakhtiyor Islamov, participated in the International Mining and Metallurgical Investment Forum and Exhibition in Dushanbe.  During the event, Tajikistan discussed potential joint geological exploration projects in GBAO with Uzbek representatives.

Another key focus is geological data digitalization.  Tajikistan is currently finalizing the digitization of its national geological map (scale 1:200,000), which will improve mineral resource forecasting and mining project planning.  Uzbekistan is also interested in developing a unified geological database for Central Asia, aiming for more efficient resource management across the region.