ТАSHKENT, August 30. /Dunyo IA/.   Today, at a meeting with media representatives, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi shared their assessments of the talks, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

According to the press service of the Head of our State, President of Uzbekistan emphasized the great significance of the historic visit of the Prime Minister of India to Uzbekistan.

President of Uzbekistan noted that the fruitful talks were yet another vivid demonstration of the sincere friendship, high mutual respect, and trust between the two countries.

It was noted that India is a reliable and promising strategic partner with considerable standing and influence on the international stage. India’s impressive achievements in digital technologies, software, and startups were highly praised.

In this context, thorough preparations were undertaken for the visit, a comprehensive set of documents, including a Joint Statement, was approved, and several intergovernmental agreements were signed.

It was noted with great satisfaction that bilateral relations have been elevated to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership.

The main focus was on economic issues. Last year, bilateral trade increased by 33 percent to $1.3 billion. They set a target of $5 billion by 2030.

As part of the visit, a portfolio of key joint investment projects was developed. Specific agreements were reached with several major Indian companies.

During the talks, new areas for growth were identified to expand cooperation in energy, critical minerals, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, electronics, mechanical engineering, the jewellery industry, and agriculture.

Importance of maintaining mutual support on international and regional platforms was emphasized, including within the UN, SCO, Non-Aligned Movement, and BRICS, as well as in cooperation with the countries of the Global South.

Regarding cultural and humanitarian relations, it was highlighted that four Indian universities are active in Uzbekistan, and both the Centre for Indian Culture named after Lal Bahadur Shastri and the Centre for Indian Studies named after Mahatma Gandhi are successfully functioning. Additionally, it was noted that the 30-day visa-free regime and 14 weekly flights will support continued tourism growth.

Concluding his remarks, the Head of State noted that a comprehensive Roadmap would be prepared to ensure the full implementation of the agreements reached and expressed gratitude to his Indian counterpart and all participants.