New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently visiting Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan has conferred its highest honour upon PM Modi on the occasion of its 35th independence anniversary. Modi also extended his best wishes to the people of the country on this occasion. While accepting the award, the ‘Oliy Darajali Do’stlik’ (Order of Friendship), Modi expressed that he felt honoured to receive it.
He stated that he dedicates this award to the unbreakable bond between Uzbekistan and India. PM Modi appeared very pleased during the visit, having also finalised a deal for uranium supplies. This visit by PM Modi is considered highly significant for India.
Uzbekistan is a strong strategic partner for India: Modi.
During bilateral talks with Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, PM Modi noted that this year marks the completion of 15 years of the strategic partnership between India and Uzbekistan. He stated that both nations are now elevating their relationship to the level of a ‘comprehensive strategic partnership’ and will work towards new goals in this regard.
Modi mentioned that he had reviewed the document outlining key sectors and projects identified to strengthen the bilateral partnership. Appreciating this effort, he expressed confidence that both countries would move forward rapidly in this direction.
The Prime Minister described the conversation held with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during dinner as very positive. He added that several important decisions were taken during the meeting. A coordination council at the level of foreign ministers will be established between the two countries, and cooperation will be enhanced through mutual coordination.
Joint Business Summit
PM Modi announced that the two countries would jointly organise a business summit. This summit will see the participation of prominent figures from the business communities of both nations. He also emphasised the need to establish a long-term arrangement for uranium supplies. Meanwhile, three ‘sister-city’ and ‘sister-state’ agreements are also being finalised.
PM Modi stated that a roadmap would be prepared to ensure these agreements are utilised to their full potential. Citing Uzbekistan’s ‘New Tashkent’ and India’s ‘GIFT City’ in Gujarat, he spoke of enhancing cooperation and coordination between the two nations in the fields of development and technology.
What the President of Uzbekistan Said
PM Narendra Modi was accorded great respect in Uzbekistan and was also conferred its highest honour. Uzbekistan’s President Mirziyoyev stated that India is a strategic partner of Uzbekistan. He noted that last year, trade between the two nations crossed the one-billion-dollar mark for the first time. Meanwhile, the number of joint ventures between the two countries has also multiplied in just a few years. Additionally, he mentioned that approximately 14 direct flights operate weekly between India and Uzbekistan.
