Eyewitness reports indicate that the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border is closed again. ITAR-TASS confirmed it, with references to Sharaf Faizullayev of the Directorate of Border Service Directorate of the Tajik National Security State Committee.

All Uzbek crossing points on the Uzbek-Tajik border closed on November 27 all but halting traffic in both direction. Uzbekistan made the decision unilaterally, without warning Tajikistan in advance. The Tajik consulate in Uzbekistan had been granting visas for trips to Tajikistan until the last possible moment unaware of Uzbekistan’s initiative.

Tajik and Uzbel leaders Emomali Rakhmon and Islam Karimov met in Dushanbe this August and discussed bilateral problems in the relations between the two countries, including the necessity of a simple visa regime. Indeed, visas had not been abolished even when Uzbekistan joined the Eurasian Economic Cooperation Organization. This November, it withdrew from the organization again.

Since no official information is available the assumption is that the border was closed in connection with preparations for the Uzbek Constitution Day celebrated on December 8. The Uzbek authorities are known for their obsession with security measures whenever the matter concerns symbols of state sovereignty. Uzbekistan regularly closes the border with Tajikistan on the eve of presidential elections and Independence Day.

Stunned by the “Border is closed!” screams from border guards, Uzbek nationals are being compelled to turn back from the border without so much as an explanation.

Exceptions are being made for bearers of diplomatic passports, citizens of Russia, and Tajiks returning from Uzbekistan.

Originally posted and written for: Ferghana.ru

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