MOSCOW, April 2. /TASS/. Russian-Tajik defense cooperation is strategic in nature and helps maintain stability in Central Asia, Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov has said.

The Russian Defense Ministry reported that Belousov held talks with the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Tajikistan, Colonel General Emomali Sobirzoda.

"Russian-Tajik defense cooperation is strategic in nature and is a crucial factor in maintaining stable security in the Central Asian region. We work closely bilaterally, as well as within the CIS, CSTO, and SCO," Belousov said.

He also expressed confidence that the ongoing meeting will give new impetus to military cooperation between Russia and Tajikistan.

"In turn, Colonel-General Emomali Sobirzoda thanked Belousov for the conditions created for the Tajik delegation at the regular meeting of the Council of Defense Ministers of the CIS member states," the Defense Ministry said.