President of Tajikistan: Crocus City Hall attack did ‘serious damage’ to country’s image

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon met with Russian president Vladimir Putin following last month’s attack on Moscow-area concert venue Crocus City Hall. Several of the suspects are Tajik nationals. 

Rahmone] noted that Russia-Tajikistan relations are “on the rise in terms of economic and trade partnerships, and in the humanitarian sphere,” but also had some pointed words on the topic of terrorism.

“As for the struggle against terrorism and extremism, you’ve known our position for over 30 years. Our position is that we’re against double standards in the struggle against terrorism and extremism. Terrorism has neither nationality nor religion,” said Rahmon.

He added that Russian and Tajikistani security forces had been doing good work all year, but “unfortunately, a tragedy occurred at Crocus City Hall.” He emphasized again that Tajikistan has fought terrorism and extremism for more than 30 years. He called it a “global problem.”

“Tajiks are an ancient people, with an ancient history, culture, and civilization. What happened is, of course, absolutely unacceptable to us. This is what causes serious damage to the image, history, culture, and traditions of our nation. We will continue to work closely with you on this issue,” Rahmon concluded.