PM Modi Embarks on Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan Visit For 26th SCO Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began his visit to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, with security, connectivity and economic opportunities expected to feature prominently in his engagements with regional partners. Before departing for Tashkent, Modi said India would work with fellow members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to advance a shared vision focused on security and regional cooperation. He said India’s approach would seek to strengthen opportunities for countries across the region while addressing common security challenges. The visit is scheduled to continue through September 1 and includes participation in key SCO engagements.

Modi said India was looking forward to advancing its vision for the SCO, with security, connectivity and opportunity forming the central pillars of its approach. He also stressed the importance of cooperation among member countries to build a region free from terrorism. The emphasis on counter-terrorism comes as security remains a major area of discussion within the SCO, which brings together countries from across Asia and has sought greater coordination on regional security issues. India has consistently highlighted the need for stronger international cooperation against terrorism and for countries to work together to address security threats.

The Prime Minister’s first destination is Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, where he is expected to hold discussions with the Uzbek leadership and engage on areas of bilateral and regional interest. India and Uzbekistan have maintained close diplomatic relations and cooperate in areas including trade, investment, connectivity, security, education and cultural exchanges. Modi’s visit provides an opportunity to review existing cooperation and explore new areas of partnership. His engagements in Uzbekistan are also expected to contribute to broader discussions on regional connectivity and economic opportunities.

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From Tashkent, Modi will travel to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, to participate in the 26th SCO Summit. The summit is expected to bring together leaders of SCO member states to discuss regional security, economic cooperation, connectivity and other issues affecting the wider region. India’s participation will provide an opportunity for Modi to present New Delhi’s priorities within the grouping and engage with other participating leaders. Counter-terrorism and the need for coordinated action against extremist threats are expected to remain important subjects during the discussions.

Connectivity and economic opportunity are also key components of India’s stated vision for the SCO. The grouping covers a large and strategically important part of the Eurasian region, making cooperation on transport links, trade routes and economic engagement significant for its members. India has sought to promote greater connectivity while emphasising that such initiatives should respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Greater economic cooperation among SCO countries could also support trade and investment links and create additional opportunities for businesses and communities across the region.

Modi’s four-day visit to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan is therefore expected to combine bilateral diplomacy with India’s engagement in the wider SCO framework. His message ahead of the trip placed particular emphasis on security and the goal of building a region free from terrorism, alongside stronger connectivity and economic opportunities. The Prime Minister’s participation in the SCO Summit in Bishkek will give India an opportunity to work with fellow members on these priorities and discuss challenges affecting regional stability and cooperation. The visit is scheduled to conclude on September 1.

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