India and Uzbekistan on Monday agreed to shore up their ties in defence, trade, mining and energy sectors as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Uzbek counterpart Bakhtiyor Saidov carried out a comprehensive review of the overall bilateral relations. The two foreign ministers also exchanged views on key regional challenges.
Saidov is currently on a visit to New Delhi. "Undertook a detailed review of our Strategic Partnership, with particular focus on energy, infrastructure, trade, defence, education and culture," Jaishankar said on social media after the talks. "We also discussed key regional challenges and exchanged views on expanding our multilateral cooperation," he said.
'India considers Uzbekistan as part of its extended neighbourhood'
In his televised opening remarks at the meeting, Jaishankar said India considers Uzbekistan as part of its extended neighbourhood. "I am very glad to see that there has been steady momentum in our ties," he said, citing expansion of ties in digital technology, energy, healthcare, and education. "We want to take this cooperation into mining as well. We currently have trade worth close to USD one billion, and we definitely believe that this number should go up," he said.
Jaishankar said India and Uzbekistan share common views on various international and regional issues, particularly when it comes to confronting terrorism, extremism, and drug trafficking. "We deeply appreciate that the government and people of Uzbekistan have taken a strong stand against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations," he said. "You have your own challenges and experiences, but we know that both of us have shown zero tolerance towards (terror) sanctuaries and cross-border terrorism," he added.
Uzbek foreign minister also met President Droupadi Murmu. "Exchanged views on further enhancing political dialogue, expanding trade, economic and investment cooperation, and strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties," he said after meeting the president. "Also discussed current regional and international issues, as well as prospects for cooperation within international organizations," he added.