PM Modi Begins Central Asia Visit, to Strengthen India’s Strategic Partnerships and Push for Regional Security
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a four-day visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic from August 29 to September 1, 2026, with the agenda focused on strengthening India’s strategic partnerships in Central Asia, expanding economic and security cooperation, and advancing regional peace and stability.
According to the Prime Minister’s departure statement released by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) on August 29, Modi will first visit Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on August 29–30 at the invitation of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Focus on India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership
During his State Visit to Uzbekistan, PM Modi is expected to hold discussions with President Mirziyoyev on ways to further deepen bilateral cooperation.
Key areas on the agenda include trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence and energy. The discussions will also focus on advancing the shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan.
As part of his visit, PM Modi will also visit the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies. These visits are aimed at highlighting the longstanding cultural and people-to-people connections between India and Uzbekistan.
India to Push for a Secure and Stable Region
From Tashkent, the Prime Minister will travel to Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, where he will participate in the 26th Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
The summit is significant as it marks 25 years of the SCO. India has been an active and constructive member of the organisation since 2017.
PM Modi said India’s vision for the region is anchored in three key pillars—Security, Connectivity and Opportunity.
He also emphasised the need for collective efforts by SCO members to address terrorism, separatism and extremism, which he described as continuing threats to peace and stability in the neighbourhood and beyond.
Engagement with Central Asian Leaders
During the Bishkek visit, PM Modi is expected to meet Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov and other SCO leaders. These bilateral interactions are expected to provide an opportunity to further strengthen India's relations with Central Asian countries.
The Prime Minister will also attend the Opening Ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, which celebrates the rich cultural and living heritage of Central Asia.
Strengthening India’s Central Asia Outreach
The four-day visit comes as India continues to expand its strategic, economic and cultural engagement with Central Asia.
PM Modi said he is confident that the visit will strengthen India’s strategic partnerships in the region, deepen civilisational ties and contribute to the shared pursuit of peace, stability and prosperity.
The visit underscores India's growing focus on Central Asia as an important partner in advancing connectivity, energy cooperation, security and economic opportunities.