Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday conferred Uzbekistan’s highest state honour, the ‘Oliy Darajali Do‘stlik’ Order, by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during his state visit to Tashkent. Modi dedicated the recognition to India’s 1.4 billion people and the centuries-old friendship and shared heritage between the two countries.
The Uzbek President’s decree said Modi was honoured for his contribution to strengthening the historic friendship and strategic partnership between India and Uzbekistan, deepening multifaceted cooperation and advancing political, trade, economic and investment ties. It also recognised his contribution towards expanding cultural and humanitarian exchanges between the two countries.
Accepting the honour, Modi said receiving Uzbekistan’s highest award was a moment of immense pride and stressed that the recognition belonged not to one individual but to the people of India. He thanked Mirziyoyev, the Uzbek government and its people for the honour.
‘Dostlik means friendship’
Modi highlighted the significance of the word ‘Dostlik’, which means friendship, saying it captured the sentiment at the heart of India-Uzbekistan relations. He said he accepted the award with humility and dedicated it to the longstanding friendship and common heritage shared by the two nations.
The Prime Minister said such an honour also brought greater responsibility and assured Uzbekistan that India would continue to nurture the relationship. He said the two countries would work together as a united voice for the Global South and contribute to the welfare of humanity.
Modi also thanked Mirziyoyev for the hospitality extended to him and the Indian delegation during the two-day visit, saying the warmth of the reception had made them feel at home.
Ties elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
The award came as Modi and Mirziyoyev held delegation-level talks in Tashkent and agreed to elevate India-Uzbekistan relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The development coincides with the 15th anniversary of the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The leaders discussed expanding cooperation in trade and investment, energy, technology, digital connectivity and other areas. Modi said the two sides had identified important projects and timelines to take their economic partnership forward.
The Prime Minister also praised Uzbekistan’s development under Mirziyoyev, while the Uzbek President highlighted India’s economic growth and advances in areas such as digitalisation, information technology, artificial intelligence and space.
The honour adds to a growing list of international awards received by Modi from foreign governments. The ‘Oliy Darajali Do‘stlik’ Order is Uzbekistan’s highest state award for foreign citizens and stateless persons.