Today, the Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon sent a congratulatory telegram to the President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping, which reads, in particular:

"Dear Mr. President,

January 4, 2017 marks the twenty-five years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Tajikistan and the People's Republic of China.

It gives me a great pleasure to extend you my warm congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of this important milestone in the modern history of relations between our countries.

A quarter-century ago, China, as a good neighbor and reliable friend, was among the first to recognize the independence of the Republic of Tajikistan, and our countries embarked on the formation and development of a new type of interstate relations.

It is encouraging that for the past period the Tajik-Chinese relations of friendship and multifaceted cooperation developed rapidly, both in bilateral and multilateral format.

Today, the strategic partnership between our countries, built on the principles of good neighborliness, respect and mutual trust, equality and mutual consideration of interests, differs by a high level of interaction.

A solid legal base of bilateral relations has been formed, effective mechanisms for their consistent promotion have been set up, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian ties are dynamically developing, cooperation of the parties in the security sphere is also strengthening.

A constant political dialogue has been established between Tajikistan and China at the highest level, in the process of which the conceptual approaches of the parties coincide or are very similar on a wide range of topical international issues, including on the agenda of the UN and the SCO.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to emphasize, Mr. President, your personal contribution to this mutually beneficial process.

We value stable relations with the People's Republic of China and firmly believe in their logical development for the benefit of our peoples.

A further expansion of multifaceted cooperation with the great neighbor remains a priority of Tajikistan's foreign policy in the short- and long-term perspective.

Reaffirming our continued interest in the preservation and strengthening of the achieved level of relations between our countries, we express our readiness for further joint efforts to their filling with new content in all aspects.

I am convinced that the glorious annals of eternal and indestructible Tajik-Chinese friendship will continue to grow with new bright pages.

I cordially congratulate you on the twenty-fifth anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries, and wish you, Your Excellency, good health, well-being and new achievements on the path to sustainable prosperity of the friendly Chinese people".