In Asia, Putin reaffirms Russia's support to ally after confirming plans to arm regional partners

Tajik President Emomali Rahmon praised the growing partnership between Tajikistan and Russia during a meeting with President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the CSTO Summit in Bishkek. Rahmon highlighted a nearly 20% rise in bilateral trade, noting that the two countries have “no unresolved issues” and cooperation is progressing as planned. Putin commended the coordination between both governments, emphasising joint efforts in security and law enforcement. He also invited Rahmon to an informal CIS leaders’ meeting in St. Petersburg on December 21. The summit saw CSTO leaders sign key agreements on military cooperation and drug trafficking prevention.