PM Modi embarks on Central Asia tour: Focus on security and counter-terrorism at SCO Summit

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Saturday for a two-nation diplomatic visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, stating he aims to promote New Delhi's vision for the bloc centred on security, connectivity, and opportunity while collaborating with member nations to tackle terrorism.

Modi, whose itinerary includes a state visit to Uzbekistan from 29 to 30 August followed by the summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, from 30 August to 1 September, expressed confidence that the tour will bolster India's strategic alliances and deepen historical ties across Central Asia.

In his departure statement, Modi noted that the trip will further mutual goals of peace, stability, and prosperity — core principles underpinning India's international relations.

"India has been an active and constructive member of the SCO since 2017. I look forward to advancing India's vision for the region, anchored in Security, Connectivity and Opportunity, and to working with fellow members for a region free from the scourge of terrorism, separatism and extremism, which continue to threaten peace and stability in our neighbourhood and beyond," he said.

The prime minister confirmed he is travelling to Tashkent for a state visit to Uzbekistan at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

He highlighted that the strategic partnership between India and Uzbekistan has expanded substantially in recent years.

"I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of 'Viksit Bharat' and 'Yangi Uzbekistan'," he said.

Modi added that he will pay tribute to shared cultural heritage by visiting the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies.

Following his engagements in Tashkent, the prime minister will fly to Bishkek on the invitation of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov to attend the 26th SCO Summit, which marks the 25th anniversary of the regional organisation.

"I also look forward to meeting President Zhaparov and other SCO leaders, and to attend the Opening Ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, a celebration of the rich living heritage of Central Asia that India holds in deep respect," he said.

Official sources indicated that Modi will address the main SCO session, emphasising India's core priorities of security, connectivity, and economic opportunity.

The prime minister is also scheduled to hold bilateral talks with various SCO leaders on the sidelines of the event, officials added.

PTI