'Strengthening strategic ties': PM Modi embarks on four-day visit to Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a four-day visit to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on Saturday, aiming to strengthen India's strategic ties in the region. He will spend two days in Tashkent, hosting Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. During his tenure, Modi expressed optimism about the advancement of the India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership over recent years, particularly in trade, investment, digital connectivity, defense, and energy.

He also emphasized the importance of enhancing their shared visions for Viksit Bharat (Developed India) and Yangi Uzbekistan (New Uzbekistan).

Modi plans to visit the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, a nod to the strong cultural and people-to-people bonds between India and Uzbekistan. This marks his fourth visit to Uzbekistan, following trips in 2015, 2016, and 2022 to attend SCO Summits. India and Uzbekistan have enjoyed significant bilateral and multilateral engagements over the years.

Following Tashkent, Modi will head to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, at the invitation of President Sadyr Zhaparov, for the 26th SCO Summit, marking 25 years of the organization's existence. India has been a committed and constructive member of the SCO since 2017. Modi expressed his commitment to advancing India's vision for the region, centered on security, connectivity, and opportunity, while working alongside SCO members to foster a region free from terrorism, separatism, and extremism.

He also anticipated meeting President Zhaparov, other SCO leaders, and attending the Opening Ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, an event celebrating Central Asia's rich cultural heritage, a cause that India holds in high regard.