PM Narendra Modi flags ‘shared vision’ in Tashkent: Trade and culture to energy, defence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off a four-day visit to Central Asia on Saturday with a dinner meeting in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. He pledged to deepen cooperation across various sectors, including trade, tourism, health, energy, and defence, as part of a "shared vision". Modi arrived at the airport to a warm welcome from Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, marking his fourth visit to the country, showcasing the growing bilateral relations.

During his stay, Modi visited the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument and laid a wreath, signifying his commitment to cultural ties. He also discussed trade, investment, digital connectivity, defence, and energy with Mirziyoyev, aiming to advance their shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan.

The visit includes participation in the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan, a program supported by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) which has facilitated yoga certification for 528 Uzbek nationals. Both countries share strong cultural and people-to-people bonds, with over 14,000 Uzbek nationals visiting India for medical tourism. There are four Indian universities in Uzbekistan, fostering educational exchange.

The Prime Minister will later travel to Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, to participate in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, marking 25 years of SCO. Modi expressed India's commitment to advancing security, connectivity, and opportunities in the region, while also meeting SCO leaders and attending the 6th World Nomad Games.