India–Uzbekistan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: Deepening Cooperation and Unlocking New Opportunities

**India–Uzbekistan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: Deepening Cooperation and Unlocking New Opportunities**

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s State Visit to Uzbekistan on August 29-30, 2026 has brought renewed momentum to a relationship that has long been shaped by centuries of historical and cultural ties. This was Prime Minister Modi’s fourth visit to Uzbekistan, following earlier visits in 2015 (bilateral), 2016 and 2022 (SCO Summits).

With a population of about 37 million, a young demographic profile, and the distinction of being the only country sharing borders with all four other Central Asian states as well as Afghanistan, Uzbekistan is increasingly becoming a key center for regional trade and diplomacy. For Uzbekistan, a partnership with India provides access to a major economy, fresh investment sources and chances to broaden its international economic ties. Uzbekistan’s progress since independence has been remarkable, and it has grown into one of the region’s most dynamic and fastest-growing economies. India is the world’s fastest growing major economy.

A major result of PM Modi’s visit has been the upgrade of bilateral ties from a ‘Strategic Partnership’ established in 2011 to a ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’ in 2026, reflecting a determination to go beyond conventional diplomacy and build a more ambitious, multi-sector relationship.

Trade and investment have been identified as the main engine of the relationship. Between 2017 and 2025, bilateral trade turnover rose four times, from US$ 324.9 million to US$1.3 billion. During the Prime Minister’s visit, an ambitious goal was set to raise bilateral trade to US$ 5 billion by 2030. Reaching this target will require stronger business connections, higher investment and the elimination of non-tariff barriers. Uzbekistan has diversified its economy, with manufacturing and other sectors playing a growing role, and it also presents opportunities in minerals, agriculture and better access to Central Asian markets. India’s strengths in pharmaceuticals, engineering, information technology, healthcare and mining technology align with Uzbekistan’s development priorities, creating scope for mutually beneficial engagement. Although connectivity remains a major challenge, innovative and determined efforts can help strengthen cooperation. To unlock the full potential of bilateral ties, mechanisms have been established at the level of foreign and trade ministers for oversight.

Critical minerals have become an important field of cooperation. With the signing of an agreement on cooperation in geology and mineral resources, both countries have expressed interest in exploring opportunities in geological surveys, mining, mineral processing and the creation of resilient supply chains. For India, diversified access to strategically important minerals can support manufacturing, electronics and renewable energy, while for Uzbekistan, cooperation with Indian companies could bring investment, technical know-how and opportunities to develop higher-value industries.

Energy cooperation is also highly important. Uzbekistan is an established supplier of uranium to India, and the continuation of this supply arrangement matters to India’s long-term nuclear energy goals. There are also opportunities for cooperation in renewable energy and related technologies. Uzbekistan’s experience in coal gasification may also be useful for India’s own efforts to produce clean energy.

Digital payments is another area that has seen notable progress. The commercial agreement signed between NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) and National Interbank Processing Centre JSC (NIPC), Uzbekistan will connect Indian UPI Apps with Uzbekistan’s national QR payment infrastructure, making transactions easier and giving a boost to tourism and retail businesses. Cooperation in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, startups and skill development would further deepen technological ties and promote innovation while creating opportunities for young professionals.

Our growing defence cooperation adds an important layer of trust and security to the relationship. Both countries share an interest in counterterrorism and regional stability. The joint military exercise, Dustlik, and institutional engagement in counter terrorism have strengthened professional exchanges and operational cooperation.

Education remains another lasting pillar of the relationship. An agreement on cooperation in higher education and scientific research has been signed to encourage academic exchanges and partnerships. Our linguistic links have shaped many aspects of our shared history and development. Interest in learning the Uzbek language is growing in India. Prominent Indian universities such as Jawaharlal Nehru University and Jamia Milia Islamia University offer Uzbek language programmes. Likewise, Hindi is taught at Tashkent State University of Oreintal Studies, University of World Economy and Diplomacy, Uzbekistan State World Languages University and Shastri School in Tashkent. As ties between India and Uzbekistan deepen, Hindi and Uzbek have become languages of opportunity. The introduction of 100 annual Lal Bahadur Shastri Scholarships for Uzbek students learning Hindi reflects India’s strong desire not only to strengthen linguistic links and expand people-to-people ties, but also to help turn our youth into key contributors to our progress and development.

We also share Buddhist and Sufi connections. Our offer to conserve and restore the ancient Buddhist sites of Fayaz Tepa and Kara Tepa in Termez is part of our effort to preserve and promote tangible cultural and spiritual links with Uzbekistan.

Cooperation in healthcare and pharmaceuticals also offers substantial scope to improve access to medicines, expand technical expertise and encourage local manufacturing. We have a long history of cooperation and exchanges in healthcare. Ibn Sina, one of the most eminent philosopher and physician from Bukhara, was familiar with the principles of Ayurveda, and his work was influenced by Indian medicinal knowledge and practices. With the signing of the MoU on Cooperation in the areas of traditional medicine, we are looking to expand our engagement in Ayurveda and wellness tourism.

With sustained commitment and practical cooperation, India and Uzbekistan are well placed to turn their longstanding friendship into a modern strategic partnership that supports economic growth, strengthens regional stability and delivers lasting benefits to their people.