Abstract. The geopolitical role of Tajikistan is determined primarily by its geographical proximity to Afghanistan, which remains a source of terrorist threats. In this regard, Russia and China, as the two main actors in Central Asia, show a particular interest towards this republic. China holds a leading position in investment cooperation with the Republic of Tajikistan, while Russia holds the lead in the foreign trade of the republic. Cooperation in the field of security has long been considered the prerogative mainly of Russia, however, and in this direction significant growth  of China activities has been noted as well.