24 March 2010
16:36 - Tajik oficials protest Uzbek policy
Yesterday Tajik Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed their displeasure at the fact that the Uzbek side is illegally keeping the transit goods belonging to the Tajik side. The note of protest handed to the Ambassador of Uzbekistan in Tajikistan, Shoislom Shokosimov, says that more than 1000 units of cars loaded with equipment, fuel and lubricants are kept in different railway stations in Uzbekistan.

Tajikistan demanded the release of their goods being held since the beginning of February this year at the stations in Jayron, Kudukli, Sariosiyo, Hovos and Karshi, owned by the state joint-stock company "Uzbekistan Temir Yollari” (Uzbekistan Railways). The Tajik side has stated that Uzbekistan is deliberately acting to harm the neighbor’s economy.

The Uzbek side’s claim that restrictions in limitations are inevitable because there are repair works going on and the tracks are occupied by cargo belonging to Turkmenistan is difficult to fully believe. We all know the complex relations between the two heads of state. It is known that in countries where there is no freedom and democracy, the mood of the heads of state directs all forms of mutual relations.

Therefore, it is not difficult to assume that “Uzbekistan Temir Yollari” is purposely holding Tajik goods as a way of revenge on its neighbor.