India, Uzbekistan seal Uranium supply pact.

Modi’s Tashkent visit delivers strategic energy and travel gains.

India has secured a major boost for its nuclear energy program with a long-term uranium supply agreement signed with Uzbekistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed the deal on Sunday after talks with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, calling it one of the most significant outcomes of his visit.

The partnership extends beyond energy. Both nations are finalising three sister-city and sister-state agreements, with Modi urging that these initiatives be backed by actionable roadmaps rather than symbolic paperwork. He also highlighted Uzbekistan’s ambitious New Tashkent project, suggesting Gujarat’s GIFT City as a model and inviting an Uzbek delegation to study its planning and technology.

Trade, Travel, and Cultural Ties Strengthened

President Mirziyoyev described India as a “reliable strategic partner,” noting that bilateral trade surpassed $1 billion for the first time last year. Joint ventures have grown sevenfold, and connectivity has improved with 14 direct flights weekly between the two countries.

Cultural exchanges remain strong. Uzbekistan hosts the Lal Bahadur Shastri Centre for Indian Culture and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre for Indian Studies, while yoga has become increasingly popular, supported by a national federation since 2018. A regional yoga festival held in June drew wide participation.

In a move welcomed by travellers, Uzbekistan will remove visa requirements for Indian citizens for stays up to 30 days, a step expected to boost tourism and business exchanges.

A Deeper Central Asian Partnership

India and Uzbekistan already collaborate in education, pharmaceuticals, IT, and investment. With nuclear energy and city planning now added to the agenda, the relationship is expanding into new strategic areas.

Modi’s visit to Tashkent concludes on August 30, before he heads to Bishkek for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. The uranium pact, visa-free travel, and expanded trade signal that both nations are determined to translate commitments into tangible outcomes, positioning Uzbekistan as a key partner for India in Central Asia.