Aviation & Fleet Modernization: Somon Air received its first Boeing 737 MAX (737-8) in a fleet upgrade that will support short- and medium-haul routes across Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, with more aircraft planned under a broader renewal push. Fuel & Energy Security: Tajikistan is in talks with China to import gasoline and diesel amid falling supplies and rising prices, including possible delivery routes via Kulma and through neighboring transit countries, while Dushanbe also explores additional imports from Kazakhstan and other partners. Regional Rail & Trade Connectivity: A Eurasian Development Bank update says about $345bn is being invested across Asia–Europe rail and transport links, with Central Asia accounting for a major share of projects and rail expansions among the top priorities. Desertification Control Cooperation: China’s Ningxia-based desertification center is sharing anti-sand techniques with Central Asia, including tailored training delivered during a workshop in Dushanbe for Tajikistan’s mountainous terrain and erosion challenges. Regional Integration Talks: Central Asian leaders and Azerbaijan signed the Cholpon-Ata Declaration, focusing on transport corridors, energy cooperation, industry and logistics—while Tajik President Rahmon floated the idea of a large oil refinery for regional energy security. Agribusiness Exports: Balkh’s state slaughterhouse in Afghanistan has resumed and expanded mutton exports to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, adding jobs as daily processing and health inspections ramp up.