Emomali Rahmon, president of Tajikistan, was awarded an honorary professorship by Peking University on Tuesday in a ceremony highlighting growing academic and people-to-people exchanges between China and Tajikistan.

The honor recognizes Rahmon's role as a national leader and seasoned statesman in advancing bilateral friendship, promoting regional peace and development, and supporting reforms in global and regional governance, said PKU president Gong Qihuang.

During the ceremony, Gong presented Rahmon with the honorary certificate, while He Guangcai, chair of the Peking University Council, conferred a commemorative plaque.

About 50 Tajik students have graduated from Peking University so far, with six currently pursuing studies under Chinese government scholarships, Rahmon said in his speech.

Calling for expanded opportunities, Rahmon said he had requested that the university increase scholarship quotas for Tajik students, and university leaders agreed to add 10 new scholarship places.

"That would mean 50 students in five years gaining professional knowledge here, generating more positive energy for our two countries," he said.

During his visit to China, the two sides are expected to sign an agreement to establish a new Confucius Institute at Dangara State University, adding to existing platforms for cooperation, Rahmon said.