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Key Points

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Foreign Ministers from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to strengthen bilateral ties. The meeting focused on enhancing economic interconnections, connectivity, and defense cooperation across the region. Central Asian ministers strongly condemned the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack and expressed support for India's counter-terrorism efforts. The India-Central Asia Dialogue, launched in 2019, continues to serve as a crucial platform for deepening mutual understanding and strategic partnership.

Key Points: Modi Strengthens India-Central Asia Strategic Partnership

  • India prioritizes strategic partnership with Central Asian nations
  • Foreign Ministers discuss regional security and cooperation
  • Modi invites leaders to Second India-Central Asia Summit
  • Collective stance against cross-border terrorism
3 min read

India-Central Asia partnership a force multiplier in addressing shared regional, global challenges: PM Modi

PM Modi meets Central Asian Foreign Ministers, emphasizes regional cooperation, condemns terrorism, and invites leaders to summit

"India deeply cherishes its historical ties with the countries of Central Asia - PM Narendra Modi"

New Delhi, June 6

The Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, had a joint call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday evening, briefing him on the positive and productive discussions held during the 4th Meeting of the India-Central Asia Dialogue, that was held in New Delhi, earlier during the day.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi emphasised that relations with the Central Asian countries have always been a key priority for India. Building upon the strong foundation of historic people-to-people ties, he shared his vision for greater economic interconnections, expanded connectivity, enhanced defence and security cooperation, and comprehensive collaboration in new and emerging areas.

The Prime Minister highlighted that a strong India-Central Asia partnership serves as a force multiplier in addressing shared regional and global challenges.

"Delighted to meet with the Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. India deeply cherishes its historical ties with the countries of Central Asia. Look forward to working together to further deepen our cooperation in trade, connectivity, energy, fintech, food security and health for mutual progress and prosperity. We stand firm and resolute in our collective fight against terrorism," PM Modi posted on X after the meeting.

According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the Central Asian Foreign Ministers "strongly condemned" the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam and conveyed their support for India's fight against cross-border terrorism.

Prime Minister Modi also extended an invitation to the leaders of all Central Asian countries for the Second India-Central Asia Summit to be held in India.

The India-Central Asia Dialogue is a manifestation of mutual interest on the part of India and the Central Asian countries to forge even closer, wider and stronger partnership in a spirit of friendship, trust and mutual understanding.

Over the last two days, External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar hosted the five Central Asian foreign ministers - including Bakhtiyor Saidov (Uzbekistan), Rashid Meredov (Turkmenistan), Zheenbek Kulubaev (Kyrgyzstan), Sirojiddin Muhriddin (Tajikistan) and Murat Nurtleu (Kazakhstan) - amid continued incidents of cross-border terror, highlighted by the heinous April 22 Pahalgam terror attack which resulted in the death of 26 innocent civilians.

The India-Central Asia Dialogue, launched in January 2019 in Samarkand, serves as a key platform for strengthening ties between India and Central Asia. The second meeting took place virtually in October 2020 and focussed on regional security, counter-terrorism, and infrastructure development. The third meeting was held in New Delhi in December 2021 and emphasised connectivity to further deepen the ties between India and Central Asia.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is a strategic masterstroke! Central Asia is crucial for India's energy security and countering Chinese influence in the region. The Chabahar port will be game-changing for connectivity. Hope we see concrete projects soon 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
Good to see focus on economic ties beyond just security. Central Asia has so much potential for Indian businesses - from textiles to IT. But government should simplify visa processes for traders. Currently too much red tape!
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Amit S.
While I support stronger ties, we must be careful about overpromising. Remember the TAPI pipeline project? Still stuck after decades. Action matters more than summits and statements. Hope this time will be different.
S
Sunita R.
The cultural connections between India and Central Asia go back centuries! Would love to see more student exchange programs and tourism initiatives. Our shared Buddhist heritage can be a great soft power tool ✨
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Vikram J.
Strong message against terrorism is most welcome. But India needs to be careful - some Central Asian countries have close ties with Pakistan too. We must ensure they don't play both sides when it comes to terror funding.
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Neha P.
Fintech collaboration sounds exciting! With India's UPI and Central Asia's growing digital economy, we can create something revolutionary. Maybe a common digital currency for trade? The future is digital payments 💳

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