Why is Tajikistan important to Russia?

In 1873, the Russian Empire emerged victorious in its conquest of Bukhara, transforming Tajikistan into a protectorate under its control.

As a result of this political shift, Tajikistan became an integral part of Russia's economic sphere of influence.

One of the primary commodities that Russia imported from Tajikistan during this period was cotton. Large quantities of the fiber were shipped to Russia to fuel its textile industry.

Tajikistan's history is intertwined with that of the Emirate of Bukhara, a former regional power that once governed the land.

The economic relationship between the two entities was not without its challenges, however. Tajikistan saw several uprisings against Russian rule, reflecting discontent among its population.