Modi and Mirziyoyev signal closer ties during Tashkent visit

A cordial embrace at the airport signaled the start of Narendra Modi’s two-nation diplomatic tour, as the Indian Prime Minister arrived in Tashkent on Saturday. Accompanied by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Modi began his visit by paying tribute at the Yangi Uzbekistan Park, honoring the nation's 30 years of independence.

Editorial·August 29, 2026·reads: 2,388

Modi and Mirziyoyev signal closer ties during Tashkent visit

The two leaders moved quickly to formalize their agenda, scheduling delegation-level talks to expand cooperation across trade, defense, and digital connectivity. This meeting serves as a critical checkpoint for the India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership, which has gained momentum since Mirziyoyev’s 2018 state visit to India. Beyond the policy discussions, the itinerary includes symbolic stops at the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at Tashkent State University, highlighting the cultural threads connecting the two nations.

This trip marks Modi's fourth visit to the country, building on a history of engagement that includes participation in previous SCO summits. The discussions in Tashkent are expected to align the visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan before Modi departs for Bishkek. In the Kyrgyz capital, he will join President Sadyr Zhaparov to participate in the 26th SCO Summit, an event marking the organization’s 25th anniversary.