Modi and Mirziyoyev to discuss trade, pharma and space ties in Tashkent
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Tashkent on August 29 for a two-day state visit focused on expanding strategic and economic ties with Uzbekistan.
Modi was welcomed at the airport by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev before the two leaders visited the New Uzbekistan Monument, where they laid a wreath.
«The Yangi Uzbekistan Monument reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people. Glad to begin my visit by coming here,» the PM shared on X.
Upon landing in Tashkent, went to lay a wreath at the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument with President Mirziyoyev.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2026
The Yangi Uzbekistan Monument reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people. Glad to begin my visit by coming here.
Toshkentga yetib kelganimdan so‘ng,… pic.twitter.com/7VHDC0esBt
The visit is Modi’s fourth to Uzbekistan after trips in 2015, 2016 and 2022. His current tour is part of a broader four-day trip to Central Asia that will also take him to Bishkek for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit on August 31-September 1.
Trade and investment high on the agenda
Talks between Modi and Mirziyoyev are expected to cover trade, investment, defence, energy, healthcare, education and digital connectivity, with both sides seeking to expand cooperation beyond established areas. Uzbekistan’s Foreign Ministry has also identified agriculture, chemical production, geology and mechanical engineering among sectors for further joint projects.
Bilateral trade reached $698.7mn in the first seven months of 2026. Indian investments and loans in Uzbekistan stood at $225.9mn as of July 1, while 439 companies with Indian capital were operating in the country as of August 1.
The economic agenda is also linked to the two countries’ long-term development programmes, India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan’s Uzbekistan-2030 strategy. The discussions are expected to examine ways to translate these priorities into new bilateral projects.
Pharmaceuticals, technology and space
Healthcare and pharmaceuticals are expected to receive particular attention as India seeks to deepen its role in Uzbekistan’s growing pharmaceutical sector. The two governments have previously backed cooperation in pharmaceuticals, medical science and healthcare, including plans for a free pharmaceutical zone in Andijan.
Technology will be another major area of discussion, with both sides looking at cooperation in information technology, innovation and other emerging industries. Critical minerals are also expected to feature in the talks as Uzbekistan and India explore opportunities to diversify economic ties.
Space cooperation is also on the agenda. The two countries have already established a framework for working together on the peaceful use of outer space, while the upcoming talks are expected to examine opportunities in space technology and research.
Cultural diplomacy accompanies official talks
Modi’s programme in Tashkent also includes cultural and commemorative events. He is expected to visit the Lal Bahadur Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, as well as attend a luncheon hosted by Mirziyoyev.
The two governments have described cultural and humanitarian exchanges as an important part of the wider partnership. Uzbekistan and India have also developed cooperation between cities and regions, including agreements involving Samarkand and Agra and Andijan and Gujarat.
