Power & Infrastructure: Pakistan’s pressure on Afghanistan and cross-border clashes are worsening Afghanistan’s economic crisis, while Russia deepens influence after Taliban-Russia military coordination, raising regional security and trade risks. Water & Food Security Debate: A new analysis argues Afghanistan’s Qosh Tepa Canal could boost irrigation, jobs and exports—if run as large-scale commercial agriculture; shrinking it into ethnic land plots would waste resources and fuel division. Digital Economy: A Dushanbe IT Center is framed as a potential turning point for Tajikistan’s shift toward a knowledge economy, alongside rising e-payments and a 2022 e-commerce law. Energy Budgeting: The government earmarked Rs 88,000 million for power sector schemes under PSDP 2026-27, including STATCOM installations, major transmission links (CASA-1000) and new grid and storage projects. Growth Watch: EBRD says Tajikistan is among Central Asia’s fastest-growing economies, citing 8% Q1 2026 growth, strong fixed investment and manufacturing, supported by public spending and hydropower momentum. Regional Diplomacy & Business: India’s MoS Kirti Vardhan Singh reaffirmed ties with Tajikistan and announced India will host the first SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum in Kolkata in July. ADB Water Project: Tajikistan and the ADB discussed modernizing the Bahri Tojik reservoir, including protective dams, pumping upgrades and SCADA-based water management. SCO Coordination Theme: Commentary on SCO’s 25 years highlights coordination as its practical strength amid diverse member interests.