H.E. Zhang Deguang

Secretary-General

Shanghai Cooperation Organization

BEIJING

Please accept my sincere congratulations on the official launch of the Secretariat of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Beijing.

I firmly believe that this permanent organ led by you will accomplish its mission smoothly.

Tajikistan has high hopes for the Secretariat in doing an effective work to fulfill the SCO's purposes and tasks and improve its international standing.

I hereby reaffirm Tajikistan's readiness to develop fruitful cooperation with the Secretariat. I wish you and your staff all the best.

With best regards,

Emomali Rakhmonov

President of the Republic of Tajikistan

9 January 2004