Rogun Dam Scrutiny: Tajikistan’s Rogun mega-dam (335m, $6.29bn) is framed as a “life and death” electricity solution, but critics flag possible irregularities as World Bank financing ties the project to Switzerland-led voting interests. Power Grid & Climate Link: EU-Tajikistan talks put electricity losses at the center of water and climate planning—since Tajikistan relies on hydropower, every lost kilowatt-hour means more strain on rivers, reservoirs, and glacier-linked supply. Oil Output Up: Tajikistan’s oil production rose 9.3% in H1 2026 to just over 10,000 metric tons, with refining also increasing, while imports of petroleum products and LPG climbed. Energy Shock From Abroad: Ukraine’s drone strikes on Russian oil facilities are feeding a Central Asia fuel squeeze that is now spilling into winter planning, with Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan among the most import-dependent. Regional Trade Talks: Bangladesh and Tajikistan pushed to deepen trade and investment via private-sector links, business delegations, and connectivity—covering minerals, manufacturing, and easier mobility. India-Tajik Economic Agenda: India and Tajikistan reviewed cooperation across energy, hydropower, mining, critical minerals, textiles, logistics, and finance through their joint commission. Skills for Industry: Turkmen specialists joined the C5+O.N.E. English program to boost professional capacity across sectors including agriculture and energy. CSTO Exercises: CSTO states agreed details for Interaction 2026, Search 2026, and Echelon 2026 drills, with Tajikistan among participating defense ministries.