I welcoming remarks

particularly important contribution to the preservation of regional
security. Having the longest border with Afghanistan, Tajikistan
is at the forefront of the fight against such real threats for all
countries of the region as extremism, terrorism, drug trafficking,
etc. As noted, today the problem of maintaining security and
understanding the nature and extent of threats is one of the most
tangible areas for cooperation among the countries of the region.
In this situation, tremendous efforts and great practical
experience of Tajikistan in countering these threats are one of the

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most important factors for preserving stability and security
throughout Central Asia.
Thus, speaking of the degree and nature of Tajikistan’s
participation in the system of regional relations, it can be
unequivocally concluded that it is a significant organic part of
Central Asia, and the realization of its potential can serve as a key
factor in the economic development of the entire region, as well
as ensuring region-wide security. Although the further economic
advancement of Tajikistan is undoubtedly connected with the
enhancement of regional integration, on the other hand, without
the active participation of Tajikistan the issue of regional
cooperation and integration in Central Asia will also not have a
full-fledged character.
When assessing the outlook and strategic vision of regional
cooperation in political rhetoric, it can be often encountered with
highly optimistic or rather pessimistic attitudes and views.
However, unlike public policy, in analytical materials it is
necessary to hold a realistic and rational position based on a sober
assessment of various aspects of the situation. Building on this
stance, we can draw following conclusions:
- proceeding from the real national interests of all the
countries of Central Asia, we can definitely conclude that it is the
development of regional cooperation and the enhancement of
regional integration that are one of the main conditions for the
progress of the region as a whole and each of its countries in