Ambassador of Tajikistan to Pakistan, Yusuf Sharifzoda Toir, has emphasized the need to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the health sector, particularly by developing the untapped potential of medical tourism between Tajikistan and Pakistan.

The ambassador expressed these views while bidding farewell to an eight-member delegation of Pakistani journalists at Islamabad International Airport on Thursday. He underlined the vital role of the media in highlighting opportunities and creating public awareness to promote economic and healthcare cooperation between the two countries.

He said enhanced collaboration in areas such as medical tourism, healthcare services, and medical education would help bring the health industries and business communities of Tajikistan and Pakistan closer together. He added that the visit of Pakistani journalists to Tajikistan would prove to be a milestone in strengthening mutual understanding and showcasing new avenues for cooperation.

The ambassador noted that Tajikistan is steadily emerging as a regional destination for medical students from neighboring countries, with medical colleges operating according to international standards and equipped with modern facilities. He added that the country is also expanding its capacity in advanced medical tourism, including specialized treatments and surgical procedures.

Highlighting regional demand, he said many foreign patients, particularly from Afghanistan and other neighboring countries, seek quality and affordable healthcare in Tajikistan due to limited modern medical facilities in their home countries.

Speaking on the occasion, CEO of MBBS Abroad Consultancy, Dr Muhammad Abbas Mahar, said Tajikistan has strong potential to become a regional hub for medical education and healthcare services. He added that, alongside clinical healthcare, the country also offers significant opportunities in wellness and sanatorium-based tourism.

Dr Mahar said Tajikistan is rich in natural health resources, including more than 200 hot mineral springs, therapeutic mud deposits, and a clean mountainous environment. He further noted that around 45 sanatoriums and health resorts across the country provide mineral baths, mud therapy, herbal treatments, and relaxation programs, which are particularly effective for respiratory diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and overall health recovery.