Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian commended the government and people of Tajikistan for their solidarity with Iran, saying the two countries share deep historical, cultural and linguistic bonds that provide a strong foundation for expanding bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.
Speaking during a meeting in Tehran on Friday with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, who traveled to Tehran to attend the funeral and commemoration ceremonies for the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, President Pezeshkian expressed appreciation for Tajikistan's messages of sympathy and support.
The Iranian president described Iran and Tajikistan as nations connected by common cultural roots and identity. He added that Iran is a second home for the people of Tajikistan, while Tajikistan holds the same place for the Iranian people.
Referring to the recent US and Israeli aggression against Iran, President Pezeshkian said the actions lacked legal legitimacy and violated the fundamental principles of international law. He said the attacks resulted in the martyrdom of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, senior military commanders, scientists, government officials and civilians, including schoolchildren, while also damaging parts of the country's infrastructure.
The Iranian president said those behind the attacks had expected the country to be weakened, but instead the Iranian people demonstrated greater unity and national solidarity.
He also stressed that Tehran and Dushanbe have significant untapped potential for cooperation in political, economic, trade, scientific, cultural, industrial, technological and security fields, adding that the two countries should make greater use of their shared heritage to advance common interests.
President Rahmon, for his part, extended the condolences of the Tajik government and people over the martyrdom of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution and other Iranian victims.
The Tajik president said he had enjoyed more than three decades of friendship and cooperation with the martyred Leader, describing his loss as a great tragedy for Tajikistan as well.
He also welcomed the steady growth in bilateral relations, noting that trade between the two countries has increased significantly over the past five years. President Rahmon also expressed readiness to expand cooperation in investment, agriculture, industry, transportation and infrastructure projects.
He described the recent attacks against Iran as contrary to internationally recognized principles and said he had closely followed developments with deep concern. The Tajik president added that his country regards itself as standing alongside Iran and would continue supporting the Islamic Republic in the future.