Rustam Haidarzoda & Doniyor Sanginzoda
The President of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Leader of the Nation, Emomali Rahmon, has established himself as an outstanding figure in international diplomacy, whose initiatives and strategic vision shape the global agenda in the areas of peace, sustainable development, cultural unity, and digital inclusion. His activities span water and climate diplomacy, preservation of cultural heritage, strengthening regional stability, promoting green energy, and integrating artificial intelligence (AI).
Emomali Rahmon has initiated and supported key resolutions and programs within the United Nations, UNESCO, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), demonstrating a unique ability to unite countries in addressing global challenges. In 2024, he endorsed the Global Digital Compact (GDC) and laid the foundation for new initiatives, such as establishing a regional AI center in Central Asia and advancing renewable energy through the development of hydroelectric power plants.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of his role in international diplomacy, structured around three key areas: water and climate diplomacy, cultural heritage, and regional stability, with a focus on legal frameworks and innovative ideas for global leadership.
Water and Climate Diplomacy: A Pioneering Approach
Water Diplomacy: Water as a Tool for Peace
Emomali Rahmon has established himself as a pioneer of water diplomacy, promoting initiatives that prevent conflicts and foster sustainable development. His contribution to the global water agenda began with the initiation of the UN General Assembly Resolution “Proclamation of 2003 as the International Year of Freshwater” (December 20, 2000, A/RES/55/196).
This resolution highlighted water as a tool for peace, inspiring the international community to develop programs for the rational use of water resources. The success of this initiative led to the adoption of the Resolution “International Decade for Action ‘Water for Life’, 2005–2015” (December 23, 2003, A/RES/58/217), which mobilized countries to implement reforms in the water sector, including improving access to clean water and sanitation.
Read More: Tajik President Emomali’s Key Water Initiatives
In 2016, Emomali Rahmon initiated the Resolution “International Decade for Action ‘Water for Sustainable Development’, 2018–2028” (December 21, 2016, A/RES/71/222). This initiative linked water resources to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, aimed at ensuring access to water and sanitation for all. The resolution emphasized the importance of water for peace, sustainable development, and conflict prevention.
To implement this program, the Dushanbe Water Conferences were organized, serving as a platform for sharing best practices and coordinating international efforts. Reviews of the decades’ implementation in 2009 and 2019 (A/RES/64/198 and A/RES/73/295) solidified Emomali Rahmon’s influence as a leader in water diplomacy.
Climate Diplomacy: Preserving Glaciers and the Cryosphere
In the realm of climate diplomacy, Emomali Rahmon has focused on preserving glaciers and the cryosphere, recognizing their critical role in global ecosystems. His initiative, the Resolution “Proclamation of 2025 as the International Year of Glacier Preservation” (December 14, 2021, A/RES/76/203), drew attention to the issue of melting glaciers, which threatens water supplies for millions of people.
This resolution became a starting point for global efforts to protect the cryosphere. In 2024, the Resolution “Decade of Action to Support Cryospheric Sciences, 2025–2034” (August 13, 2024, A/RES/78/317) was adopted, reinforcing the international community’s commitment to scientific research and practical measures for glacier preservation.
Furthermore, Emomali Rahmon proposed a draft resolution, “Proclamation of 2026–2035 as the Decade of Peacebuilding” (2024), which underscores his peacekeeping ambitions through the lens of environmental sustainability. This initiative aims to integrate climate and water issues into peacekeeping processes, highlighting the interconnection between ecology and stability.
Support for Human Rights and Global Security
Emomali Rahmon has actively supported resolutions aimed at strengthening human rights and global security. His contributions include endorsing the “Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons” (November 15, 2000, A/RES/55/25), the “UN Convention Against Corruption” (October 31, 2003, A/RES/58/4), and the “UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy” (September 8, 2006, A/RES/60/288). These documents strengthened international legal frameworks to combat global threats, demonstrating Tajikistan’s commitment to principles of justice and security.
New Ideas: Digital Inclusion and Green Energy
In 2024, Emomali Rahmon endorsed the Global Digital Compact (September 22, 2024), emphasizing the importance of digital security and inclusion. His new initiative — the establishment of a regional AI center in Central Asia — aims to develop innovative technologies to address environmental and social challenges.
Additionally, under his leadership, Tajikistan actively promotes green energy, including the construction of new hydroelectric power plants, such as the Roghun HPP, which will become the largest in the region. These projects not only ensure energy independence but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions, supporting global climate goals.
Cultural Heritage: Bridges of Unity
Preserving Intangible Heritage
Emomali Rahmon has made significant contributions to preserving cultural heritage, viewing it as a tool for uniting peoples. Under his leadership, Tajikistan initiated 14 nominations to UNESCO lists, strengthening cultural ties in the region. The inclusion of the musical tradition “Shashmaqom” (November 25, 2003, 1.COM 2003) and the festival “Navruz” (September 30, 2009, 4.COM 2009) in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage lists promoted Central Asian culture globally. These initiatives united countries in the region, including Iran, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, around shared traditions.
Other nominations, such as “Oshi Palav” (December 6, 2016, 11.COM 2016), traditional embroidery “Chakan” (November 29, 2018, 13.COM 2018), and the musical genre “Falak” (December 15, 2021, 16.COM 2021), highlighted Tajikistan’s gastronomic and artistic diversity. In 2023, “Kulliyoti Mawlono” (May 24, 2023) and the tradition of wearing women’s headscarves (December 5, 2023, 18.COM 2023) were added, reinforcing literary and women’s artistry in a global context.
Material Heritage and Environmental Initiatives
Emomali Rahmon has also supported the preservation of material heritage. The inclusion of the ancient city of “Sarazm” (July 31, 2010, 34 COM 8B.3) and the “Tajik National Park” (June 17, 2013, 37 COM 8B.15) in UNESCO’s World Heritage List elevated Tajikistan’s international status. These sites underscore the country’s historical and natural wealth, drawing attention to the need for their preservation.
Within environmental diplomacy, Tajikistan supported UNDP’s climate change adaptation program (2010s–2023), complementing efforts to preserve natural heritage. Additionally, Emomali Rahmon endorsed the inclusion of traditions of preparing “Lavash” (November 30, 2016, 11.COM 2016) and “Dolma” (December 6, 2017, 12.COM 2017), strengthening gastronomic ties with other countries.
International Navruz celebration: A Symbol of Unity
Emomali Rahmon played a key role in promoting Navruz as an international holiday. The Resolution “International Day of Navruz” (December 18, 2014, A/RES/69/137) and the celebration of “International Navruz — 2024” (February 15, 2024) strengthened cultural ties between Central Asia, the Middle East, and other regions. These initiatives highlight the role of culture in peacekeeping and intercultural dialogue.
New Ideas: Cultural Diplomacy in the Digital Age
To further strengthen cultural diplomacy, Emomali Rahmon proposed the creation of a digital platform to promote Central Asia’s cultural heritage. This platform will include virtual museums, interactive exhibitions, and educational programs accessible in multiple languages. Such an initiative will engage younger generations in studying and preserving traditions while fostering international cultural cooperation.
Regional Stability: A Leader in Central Asia
Role in SCO and CIS
Emomali Rahmon strengthens regional stability through active participation in the SCO and CIS. His initiative “Dushanbe — UNESCO City of Peace” (September 14, 2004) became a symbol of Tajikistan’s post-conflict recovery. The Dushanbe SCO Declarations (August 28, 2008, and September 12, 2014) and the Declaration on Water Issues (June 10, 2018) enhanced cooperation in security and water resources. The CIS Agreement on Peacekeeping Forces (May 15, 1992) played a key role in stabilizing Tajikistan after the civil war.
Bilateral and Multilateral Agreements
In 2024, Emomali Rahmon signed a historic treaty with Uzbekistan (April 18, 2024), which strengthened bilateral relations and promoted regional integration. He also supported the SCO’s counter-terrorism program (June 15, 2018), CIS agreements on trade and security (October 18, 2011, and May 15, 1992), and the SCO concept for port development (July 4, 2024). The SCO Communiqué (October 16, 2024) underscored Tajikistan’s commitment to regional cooperation.
New Ideas: Regional AI Center and Green Economy
Emomali Rahmon proposed establishing a regional AI center in Dushanbe, which will serve as a platform for developing AI solutions in ecology, healthcare, and education. This center will foster technological development in Central Asia and strengthen the region’s global standing. Additionally, under his leadership, Tajikistan is actively developing a green economy, including solar and wind energy projects that complement hydropower initiatives.
Legal Frameworks and Contributions to International Law
All of Emomali Rahmon’s initiatives are grounded in robust legal frameworks, including resolutions of the UN, UNESCO, SCO, and CIS. His approach to diplomacy is characterized by strict adherence to international law and a commitment to creating universal standards for addressing global challenges. For instance, his support for the “UN Convention Against Corruption” and the “UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy” demonstrates his dedication to legal principles in combating global threats.
Read More: GCC-Central Asia: A New Regional Diplomacy Model
Emomali Rahmon contributes to the development of international law by promoting new concepts such as “water diplomacy” and “climate peace.” His draft resolution on the “Decade of Peacebuilding” (2026–2035) proposes integrating environmental and peacekeeping initiatives into international legal frameworks, setting a precedent for future global agreements.
Vision for the Future
Emomali Rahmon continues to shape the future of international diplomacy through innovative ideas, such as establishing a regional AI center, promoting green energy, and digitizing cultural heritage. His leadership is characterized by foresight, dialogue, and a commitment to sustainable development, making him a key figure in addressing the global challenges of the 21st century.
Conclusion
The Leader of the Nation, Emomali Rahmon, demonstrates exceptional leadership in international diplomacy, uniting countries around shared goals of peace, sustainable development, and cultural unity. His initiatives in water and climate diplomacy, cultural heritage preservation, and regional stability are grounded in robust legal frameworks and innovative ideas.
His support for the Global Digital Compact, the creation of a regional AI center, and the development of green energy underscore his commitment to global challenges. Emomali Rahmon continues to inspire the international community, shaping a future where cooperation and sustainable development form the foundation of the global order.
*Professor Rustam Haidarzoda is the Director of the Institute for the Study of Asian and European Countries at the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan. He holds a Doctorate in Philosophy.*
*Professor Doniyor Sanginzoda is the Deputy Director of the Institute for the Study of Asian and European Countries at the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan. He holds a Doctorate in Law.*
