India‑Uzbekistan Bilateral Talks Focus on Trade Expansion and Global Cooperation

On Monday, August 4, New Delhi hosted a bilateral meeting between India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Sadov Bakhitiyar Odilovich. The discussion centered on the broadening of strategic ties that now cover a wide range of sectors.

Jaishankar welcomed the Uzbek delegation, describing the relationship as that of neighbours and friends, reinforced by centuries‑old cultural links. He pointed out the steady flow of people, ideas and commodities across borders and the heightened institutional communication that has accelerated partnership growth.

Trade between the two states is estimated at roughly $1 billion, with activities in construction, digital services, energy, health, education and an emerging interest in mining. Both leaders voiced optimism that trade will surpass this threshold in the near future.

The establishment of a Parliamentary Friendship Group on India‑Uzbekistan contacts aims to institutionalise regular legislative exchanges, further cementing the diplomatic foundation.

Security cooperation was also highlighted, with both nations sharing identical views on counter‑terrorism, extremism and drug trafficking. Their collaboration extends to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and other multilateral platforms. Jaishankar thanked Uzbekistan for its resolute anti‑terrorism policies.

Finally, the Indian minister acknowledged Uzbekistan’s support for BRICS initiatives, noting India’s current BRICS presidency, and pledged India’s endorsement of Uzbekistan’s candidature for the Non‑Aligned Movement chairmanship for 2027‑2029.