PM Modi Embarks on Strategic Two-Nation Tour of Central Asia to Bolster Regional Ties

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Saturday for a significant two-nation tour of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, marking a strategic effort to deepen India’s diplomatic, economic, and security footprint across Central Asia.

The Prime Minister’s itinerary begins in Tashkent, where he will undertake a two-day bilateral visit at the invitation of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Highlighting the importance of this relationship, PM Modi expressed his commitment to accelerating cooperation in key sectors, including trade, investment, digital connectivity, defense, and energy.

“In recent years, the India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement,” PM Modi stated in his departure address. He added that his discussions with President Mirziyoyev would focus on aligning the shared visions of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) and “Yangi Uzbekistan” (New Uzbekistan).

Beyond formal talks, the visit holds cultural significance. The Prime Minister is scheduled to pay respects at the Shastri Memorial and visit the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, ceremonies intended to honor the deep-rooted civilizational and people-to-people connections between the two nations. This trip marks PM Modi’s fourth visit to Uzbekistan, underscoring the consistent growth of bilateral ties following the 2018 State Visit of President Mirziyoyev to India.

Following the conclusion of his bilateral engagements in Tashkent, the Prime Minister will travel to Bishkek to attend the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, hosted by Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov. The summit is particularly notable as it marks the silver jubilee of the organization.

As an active member since 2017, India intends to use the platform to advocate for its regional framework anchored in “Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity.” PM Modi emphasized the necessity of a collective front against regional threats, stating, “I look forward to working with fellow members for a region free from the scourge of terrorism, separatism, and extremism, which continue to threaten peace and stability in our neighbourhood and beyond.”

The SCO represents a massive geopolitical bloc, accounting for approximately 25% of global GDP and 15% of international trade. During his time in Bishkek, the Prime Minister is also slated to attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, an event celebrating the living heritage of Central Asia.

Reflecting on the tour, the Prime Minister noted that his strategic partnerships in the region are essential to India’s broader global engagement. He expressed confidence that the visit would reinforce the values of peace, stability, and prosperity that serve as the foundation of India’s foreign policy toward Central Asia.