Rogun Dam Funding Boost: The World Bank has approved a new $300m grant for Tajikistan’s Rogun hydropower project, following earlier support, as construction advances under WeBuild and the dam’s reservoir and turbine capacity are set to expand. Debt-Driven Growth Question: Tajikistan’s 8.2% GDP growth in the first half of 2026 and a surge in fixed-capital investment are raising a key concern: whether the boom can pay for future obligations without relying too heavily on remittances and state spending. Digital Cooperation in Dushanbe: Tajikistan hosted a CIS-focused ITU forum on telecommunications, digitalization and ICT development, with officials pointing to a 2040 communications strategy and new opportunities in AI and connectivity. AI Rules and Regional Tech Integration: Central Asian states met in Astana to push compatible digital policies and AI governance, aiming to align areas like e-docs, digital ID, data protection, cybersecurity and AI regulation. South Korea Partnership on Minerals: Tajikistan and South Korea launched a comprehensive partnership in Seoul, with critical minerals and mining highlighted as a priority for investment and supply-chain diversification. EBRD Rural Broadband Plan: The EBRD is preparing up to €48.4m for rural broadband in Tajikistan, targeting connectivity gaps despite broader barriers like state dominance and corruption. Iran Aviation Sanctions Ripple: New U.S. aviation sanctions are disrupting travel across the region, with flights suspended or sharply reduced and passengers facing longer, costlier routes that can include Dushanbe. Asian Games Spotlight: Tajik boxer Mijgona Samadova’s quarterfinal ended in defeat to India’s Priya Ghanghas, while Tajikistan’s Parviz Karimov advanced in men’s boxing after beating Bahrain’s Lobaina.