Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on crucial Central Asian tour​​​​​​​

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commenced a significant four-day diplomatic tour across Central Asia, starting August 29, 2026. This trip focuses on deepening bilateral relations in Uzbekistan before advancing to the Kyrgyz Republic for the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. Geopolitically, Central Asia sits at a crucial geographical crossroad, possessing rich reserves of natural gas and critical minerals that India requires for its growing industrial sectors. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev invited the Indian leader for a two-day state visit. This marks his fourth official trip to the nation. Delegation-level talks will target trade, defence, digital connectivity, and energy cooperation. Both leaders plan to align their respective national growth blueprints, specifically India's Viksit Bharat 2047 and the Uzbekistan-2030 strategy. Cultural diplomacy will also see reinforcement when the Prime Minister pays tribute at the Lal Bahadur Shastri memorial and visits the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies.

Prioritising Security in Bishkek

Following his Tashkent engagements, the Indian leader will travel to Kyrgyzstan to participate in the SCO Summit from August 31 to September 1. This gathering marks the 25th anniversary of the organisation, which India fully joined in 2017. During the forum, New Delhi aims to firmly highlight security, connectivity, and opportunity as its primary focus areas. Addressing terrorism and extremism originating from neighbouring territories remains a shared priority for all member states gathering in Bishkek. Several high-level bilateral meetings remain on the schedule, including anticipated discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Beyond political dialogues, the visit features a notable cultural element, as the Prime Minister will attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games.

With Inputs from Agency Threads and Image Courtesy: ANI