China’s embassy in Tajikistan has denied media reports suggesting Beijing is building a military base in the Central Asian country.

Embassy Statement

In a statement issued on Monday, the embassy described these reports as unfounded. “The information disseminated by certain media about the establishment of a Chinese military base on the territory of Tajikistan is groundless,” the statement read.

No Negotiations Involving Military Base

The embassy further clarified that discussions between China and Tajikistan do not include any plans for a military base. “This issue is also not on the agenda of China-Tajikistan negotiations,” the statement added.

Report from The Daily Telegraph

Last week, British newspaper The Daily Telegraph published an article claiming that China was constructing a secret military base in Tajikistan. According to the report, satellite images indicated the development of a large compound near the Tajik-Afghan border. The images showed multiple buildings and infrastructure that suggested a military presence. The article implied that China was seeking to enhance its strategic influence in Central Asia, potentially in response to regional security concerns, especially given the proximity to Afghanistan. The report raised questions about China’s growing military footprint and its implications for regional stability.

With Inputs from Reuters