This airbase was the first established by India outside its borders and played an important role in providing logistical support for operations in Afghanistan, as well as monitoring the northern borders of Pakistan, which are only 30 km away, and overseeing the Chinese region of Xinjiang. This became particularly relevant in light of the rising tensions following the incidents in Galwan in 2020.
However, this decision was influenced by long-standing resistance from Russia, which maintains its influence within the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and has 7,000 troops from the 201st Motor Rifle Division stationed in Tajikistan. Additionally, China expressed concerns about India's proximity to its 470-kilometer border.
Experts note that this move strengthens the positions of Moscow and Beijing in Central Asia through the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which may limit India's capabilities in combating terrorism and delivering humanitarian aid to the region.
Official comments from Tajik authorities are currently absent, but this decision may indicate attempts by Dushanbe to balance its relationships with great powers to achieve economic benefits and ensure security.
