Uzbekistan Emerging as a Strategic Gateway for Indian Businesses in Central Asia, says Dr. Kalantri

Dr. Vijay Kalantri, an Honorary Consul of Uzbekistan and Chairman of the MVIRDC World Trade Center in Mumbai, has highlighted Uzbekistan's growing importance as a strategic gateway for Indian businesses in Central Asia. The relationship between India and Uzbekistan has taken a significant turn with the upgrade to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Dr. Kalantri believes this can be a pivotal step in achieving India's target of bilateral trade surpassing US$5 billion by 2030.

A key factor in this potential growth is the proposed 30-day visa-free regime between India and Uzbekistan. This measure is expected to facilitate increased business travel, trade delegations, exhibitions, tourism, and investment partnerships. Dr. Kalantri emphasized that such ease of movement can stimulate business interactions and partnerships.

Further, Dr. Kalantri pointed out the potential for deeper cooperation between India and Uzbekistan in several sectors, including critical minerals, uranium and energy security, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture, digital technology, and manufacturing. Uzbekistan's resource base could complement India's expanding needs, while Indian industries could contribute expertise in technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and skill development.

The recognition of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Uzbekistan's highest honor, the 'Oliy Darajali Do'stlik' Order, underscores the warmth of the bilateral relations and India's rising global stature. Modi's visits to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, along with India's participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), underline the escalating strategic and economic significance of Central Asia. This could potentially bolster trade, investment, and business ties across the region.