Attack on Tajikistan–Afghanistan border leaves Chinese casualties; embassy issues renewed alert

(ECNS) — A violent attack Sunday evening in the Darvoz district of Tajikistan’s Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, near the Afghan border, resulted in casualties among Chinese nationals, the Chinese Embassy in Tajikistan said Monday.

The embassy urged Chinese enterprises and personnel to immediately evacuate from areas along the Tajikistan–Afghanistan border. Other Chinese citizens in Tajikistan were advised not to travel to the affected region and to strengthen safety precautions.

In case of emergency, Chinese nationals are advised to promptly contact local police and seek assistance from the embassy.

Chinese Ambassador to Tajikistan Guo Zhijun on Sunday night held urgent phone conversations with Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin and First Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for National Security Kamolzoda Farhod Vohid.

Guo urged the Tajik side to ensure the safety of Chinese companies and citizens in Tajikistan.

Tajik officials strongly condemned the armed attack targeting Chinese nationals and said the government attaches great importance to China’s concerns. They pledged to immediately reinforce security measures and make every effort to safeguard the safety of Chinese enterprises and citizens.