External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar today highlighted that bilateral relations between India and Uzbekistan have expanded over the years and span a diverse range of domains today, including construction, energy, health, and education. In his opening remarks during meeting with Uzbekistan Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov in Delhi, Dr Jaishankar said both countries have a bilateral trade of around a billion dollars. He said both nations share a commonality of views on international and regional issues, particularly when it comes to terrorism, extremism and drug trafficking.
Mr. Jaishankar stated that India and Uzbekistan cooperate in a number of bilateral and multilateral fora, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Dr Jaishankar said India deeply appreciates that government and people of Uzbekistan have taken a strong stand on combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. He said both countries have shown zero tolerance towards cross border terrorism.
The External Affairs Minister said India and Uzbekistan share a long and deep historical and cultural linkage as well. He added that India considers Uzbekistan as a part of its extended neighbourhood. He hoped today’s meeting will contribute to the deepening of India-Uzbekistan ties.
