PM Modi Central Asia Tour: India Eyes $2 Billion Trade With Uzbekistan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan as India intensifies its engagement with Central Asian republics. The visit aims to solidify regional security and energy cooperation, particularly as the region becomes a focal point for global logistics. In Uzbekistan, the Prime Minister will engage in high-level talks focused on expanding the strategic partnership beyond traditional sectors. This visit underscores India's 'Connect Central Asia' policy amidst shifting Eurasian geopolitics and the need for reliable energy corridors.

Uzbekistan has set an ambitious target of reaching $2 billion in bilateral trade with India by 2027. A major component of this economic push involves Indian investments in mining and rare earth elements, which are critical for India's electronics and green energy transitions. During a recent call on India’s President, Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister emphasized the potential for collaboration in technology transfer and industrial parks. These developments follow recent agreements in the energy sector, where India seeks to diversify its supply chains through direct access to Central Asian minerals.

The tour is critical for India’s regional connectivity goals, especially the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). Strengthening ties with Tashkent and Bishkek allows New Delhi to counterbalance other regional influences while securing transit routes that bypass traditional land-blockades. For the average Indian, these ties could eventually manifest in more stable energy prices and new export markets for Indian pharmaceuticals and IT services. Analysts will monitor specific MoUs related to security cooperation and counter-terrorism during the trip, which remain a shared priority for both regions.