Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s State Visit to Uzbekistan on 29-30 August 2026 has injected fresh momentum to an expanding relationship rooted in centuries of historical and cultural connections. This was the fourth visit of Prime Minister Modi to Uzbekistan with the previous being in 2015 (bilateral), 2016 and 2022 (SCO Summits).
With a population of approximately 37 million with young demographics and the only one sharing borders with all four other Central Asian countries, and also Afghanistan, Uzbekistan is emerging as an important hub for regional commerce and diplomacy. For Uzbekistan, partnership with India offers access to a major economy, new sources of investment and opportunities to diversify its international economic relationships. Uzbekistan’s many achievements since achieving independence are impressive and it has become one of the most dynamic and fast-growing economy in the region. India is the fastest growing major economy in the world.
One of the key outcomes of the PM Modi’s visit has been the elevation of bilateral relations from a ‘Strategic Partnership’ forged in 2011 to a ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’ in 2026 signalling a commitment to move beyond traditional diplomacy towards a more ambitious, multi-sectoral relationship.
Trade and investment has been identified as the key driver of the relationship. Between 2017 and 2025, the bilateral trade turnover increased fourfold, from US$ 324.9 million to US$1.3 billion. During PM’s visit, an ambitious target has been set to increase the bilateral trade to US$ 5 billion by 2030. Achieving this will require stronger business links, greater investments and the removal of non-tariff barriers. Uzbekistan has diversified its economy with manufacturing and other industries playing an increasingly important role and also offers opportunities in minerals, agriculture and improved access to Central Asian markets. India’s strengths in pharmaceuticals, engineering, information technology, healthcare and mining technology complement Uzbekistan’s development priorities creating opportunities for a mutually beneficial engagement. Although connectivity remains a significant challenge, innovative and determined approaches can help in strengthening cooperation. In order to realise the true potential of our bilateral relations, mechanisms have been set up at the level of foreign and trade ministers for supervision.
Critical minerals have emerged as an important area of cooperation. With the signing of agreement on cooperation in the area of geology and mineral resources, both countries have affirmed interest in exploring opportunities in geological surveys, mining, mineral processing and the development of resilient supply chains. For India, diversified sources of strategically important minerals can support manufacturing, electronics and renewable energy while for Uzbekistan, cooperation with Indian companies could bring investment, technical expertise and opportunities to develop higher-value industries.
Energy cooperation is equally significant. Uzbekistan is an established supplier of uranium to India, and continuation of the supply arrangement is important to India’s long-term nuclear energy ambitions. There are also opportunities for cooperation in renewable energy and related technologies. Uzbekistan’s experience in coal gasification can also be useful for India’s own push to derive clean energy.
Digital payments is an area which has witnessed significant progress. The commercial agreement signed between NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) with National Interbank Processing Centre JSC (NIPC), Uzbekistan will link the Indian UPI Apps with Uzbekistan’s national QR payment infrastructure making transactions more convenient and providing a boost to tourism and retail businesses. Collaboration in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, startups and skill development would deepen technological ties and encourage innovation while creating opportunities for young professionals.
Our increasing defence cooperation adds an important dimension of trust and security to the relationship. Both our countries have shared interest in counterterrorism and regional stability. The joint military exercise, Dustlik, and institutional engagement in counter terrorism has enhanced professional exchanges and operational cooperation.
Education is another enduring pillar between the two countries. An agreement on cooperation in the field of higher education and scientific research has been signed with a view to foster academic exchanges and partnerships. Our linguistic connections have influenced various aspect of our shared history and development. There is growing interest in India for learning Uzbek language. Eminent Indian Universities such as Jawaharlal Nehru University and Jamia Milia Islamia University offer Uzbek language programmes. Similarly, Hindi is also being taught at Tashkent State University of Oreintal Studies, University of World Economy and Diplomacy, Uzbekistan State World Languages University and Shastri School in Tashkent. With deepening ties between India and Uzbekistan, Hindi and Uzbek have become languages of opportunity. The institution of 100 annual Lal Bahadur Shastri Scholarships for Uzbek students learning Hindi reflects India’s deep desire to not only strengthen our linguistic linkages and enhance people-to-people interactions but also transition our youth into key contributors to our progress and development.
We also have Buddhist and Sufi connections. Our offer for conservation and restoration of ancient Buddhist sites of Fayaz Tepa and Kara Tepa in Termez is part of our effort to preserve and promote tangible cultural and spiritual connections with Uzbekistan.
Cooperation in healthcare and pharmaceuticals also offers significant scope to improve access to medicines, expand technical expertise and encourage local manufacturing. We have shared a long history of cooperation and exchanges in healthcare. Ibn Sina, one of the most eminent philosopher and physician from Bukhara, was aware of the principles of Ayurveda and his work was influenced by Indian medicinal knowledge and practices. With the signing of MoU on Cooperation in the areas of traditional medicine, we are looking at expanding our engagement in Ayurveda and wellness tourism.
With sustained commitment and practical cooperation, India and Uzbekistan are poised to transform their longstanding friendship into a modern strategic partnership that advances economic growth, strengthens regional stability and delivers lasting benefits to their people.
