Mirziyoyev Presents Oliy Darajali Dustlik Award to Modi
TASHKENT: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday conferred Uzbekistan’s highest state honour, the Order of Oliy Darajali Dustlik, by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during his two-day state visit to Tashkent.
The prestigious award recognises Modi’s contribution to strengthening relations between India and Uzbekistan and deepening cooperation between the two countries.
Modi Dedicates Honour to India-Uzbekistan Friendship
After receiving the award, Modi dedicated the honour to the long-standing friendship and shared heritage between India and Uzbekistan.
He said the two nations would continue working together to strengthen cooperation and contribute to the welfare of the Global South and humanity. Modi also expressed gratitude to President Mirziyoyev for the recognition.
The award comes during a significant phase in bilateral relations, with both countries seeking to expand cooperation across trade, investment, energy, connectivity, defence and other strategic areas.
India, Uzbekistan Upgrade Ties to Strategic Partnership
Modi’s visit also resulted in a major diplomatic decision, with India and Uzbekistan agreeing to elevate their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The two sides have set a target of taking bilateral trade to $5 billion by 2030 and discussed measures to expand economic engagement.
Energy cooperation was another important area of discussion, with India and Uzbekistan working towards a long-term arrangement for uranium supplies. The countries also identified connectivity and clean energy as areas with potential for greater cooperation.
Modi and Mirziyoyev Review Wider Bilateral Cooperation
During their talks, Modi and Mirziyoyev reviewed cooperation in trade and investment, defence, digital connectivity, energy, education and people-to-people relations.
The two leaders also discussed their respective long-term development visions, including Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan-2030. A package of bilateral documents was signed to strengthen cooperation in several sectors.
Modi to Attend SCO Summit in Kyrgyzstan
Following his Uzbekistan visit, Modi is scheduled to travel to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.
At the summit, India is expected to highlight its priorities of security, connectivity and opportunity while also holding bilateral meetings with leaders from other SCO member states.
The latest developments in Tashkent underline the growing importance India attaches to Central Asia and mark another step in strengthening its strategic and economic engagement with Uzbekistan.
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