New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India will work with members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to promote a region free from terrorism, separatism and extremism.
Ahead of his visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic from August 29 to September 1, PM Modi said India’s approach to the region is centred on three key priorities: security, connectivity and opportunity. He expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen India’s strategic partnerships in Central Asia and deepen longstanding civilisational and people to people ties.
PM Modi will begin his tour with a State Visit to Uzbekistan on August 29 and 30 at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. He is expected to discuss ways to expand cooperation in areas including trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence and energy.
The Prime Minister will also highlight the shared development goals of India and Uzbekistan, including the vision of a developed India and a modern Uzbekistan.
During his stay in Tashkent, PM Modi is scheduled to visit the Lal Bahadur Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies. The visits are expected to underline the historic cultural links between the two countries.
From Uzbekistan, PM Modi will travel to Bishkek to attend the 26th SCO Summit hosted by the Kyrgyz Republic. The summit also marks 25 years of the organisation.
PM Modi is expected to address the SCO gathering and outline India’s priorities for regional security, connectivity and economic opportunities. He will also hold bilateral meetings with leaders of SCO member states on the sidelines of the summit.
The Prime Minister is additionally scheduled to attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, highlighting India’s interest in the cultural and civilisational heritage of Central Asia.
