DELHI, August 31. /Dunyo IA/. Leading Indian media outlets are widely covering Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Uzbekistan and his upcoming participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

Indian publications are also analysing New Delhi’s strategic interests in Central Asia and prospects for expanding relations with Uzbekistan.

The Times of India notes that Narendra Modi’s visit to Tashkent confirmed the scale and dynamic development of the strategic partnership between the two countries. Talks with President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev focused on expanding trade and economic ties, critical mineral extraction, pharmaceuticals, defence, digital connectivity and education.

Citing India’s Ministry of External Affairs, The Indian Express notes that the talks are aimed at advancing the “Viksit Bharat 2047” and “Uzbekistan–2030” strategies. The publication also reports that around 16,000 Indian students are studying in Uzbekistan and that four branches of Indian universities are operating successfully in the country.

Navbharat Times highlights the geopolitical significance of the visit, describing Uzbekistan as one of India’s most important and reliable partners in Central Asia. The publication covers defence cooperation, including the Dosti military exercises, cooperation in counterterrorism and the development of alternative transport routes through the Port of Chabahar. It also highlights the goal of increasing bilateral trade to 3 billion dollars in the near term.

India TV, Mint and Outlook India are also covering the Prime Minister’s participation in the 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek following his talks in Uzbekistan. Indian media outlets note that the visit has given new practical momentum to the multifaceted partnership between New Delhi and Tashkent.