The Diplomat reported on March 11 that Tajik president’s visit to Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek, comes in the wake of the settling of a final border agreement between the two countries and ahead of an expected trilateral summit – with the Kyrgyz and Uzbek presidents – scheduled for March 31 in the Tajik northern city of Khujand.  

According to The Diplomat, relations between the three Fergana Valley neighbors have undergone a tremendous transformation over the last few years.   

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov is reportedly expected to sign the border deal into law alongside his Tajik counterpart Emomali Rahmon during the latter’s visit this week.

The border agreement opens an opportunity for a thaw in relations that have long been chilly between the two nations.  And it contributes to the wider project of enhancing regional cooperation.

As far as the first trilateral summit of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan is concerned, it is expected to be an important step in strengthening regional cooperation.