India-Uzbekistan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Announced
Why in the news
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a state visit to Tashkent on 29-30 August 2026 at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The two countries raised their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Key facts
- Trade target: USD 5 billion by 2030, from USD 1.3 billion now (up 33% last year).
- Uranium: a new long-term supply contract is close; an earlier 2019 contract covers 1,100 tonnes.
- UPI interoperability with Uzbekistan’s UZQR codes; Indian travellers are expected to use UPI there within about a year.
- MoU on geology and mineral resources, among 16 outcomes.
- Honour: the Oliy Darajali Do’stlik Order; this was Modi’s fourth visit.
Other outcomes
- Cultural Exchange Programme 2026-30 and Tourism Partnership 2026-28.
- Conservation of Buddhist sites Fayaz Tepa and Kara Tepa.
- USD 1 million grant for Aral Sea afforestation; 100 Lal Bahadur Shastri scholarships for Hindi studies; Sanskrit Chair at Tashkent State University.
Exam angle
- Uzbekistan is a key Central Asian partner under India’s Connect Central Asia policy; the capital is Tashkent.
- The strategic partnership dates from 2011, so the 2026 upgrade comes after 15 years.
- Uranium and critical minerals link to India’s civil nuclear plans.