Modi’s SCO Visit: India-Central Asia Ties Deepen
By Business Desk
PM Modi visits Uzbekistan & Kyrgyzstan (Aug 29-Sep 1, 2026) for SCO Summit, focusing on trade, defense, energy, and deepening India’s strategic partnership with Central Asia.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a four-day visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic from August 29 to September 1, 2026, primarily to strengthen India’s ties with Central Asia and attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit.
Deepening Ties in Uzbekistan
The tour begins with a state visit to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from August 29-30, at the direct invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. This marks Prime Minister Modi’s fourth visit to Uzbekistan, highlighting the depth of bilateral engagement.
During his discussions with President Mirziyoyev, key areas of cooperation will be reviewed. These include trade, investment, defence, and digital connectivity.
Further discussions will cover energy, education, and cultural exchanges, alongside the future trajectory of their strategic partnership. They are also expected to exchange views on developmental visions like Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan-2030.
In addition to policy discussions, Modi will visit significant cultural sites in Tashkent, including the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies.
India’s Role at the SCO Summit in Kyrgyzstan
Following his engagements in Uzbekistan, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, to attend the 26th SCO Summit from August 31 to September 1. This particular summit is significant as the SCO commemorates its 25th anniversary, with India holding full membership since 2017.
At the summit, Modi is scheduled to deliver an address outlining India’s core priorities within the forum. These priorities are security, connectivity, and opportunity.
The Prime Minister also plans to hold bilateral meetings with leaders from other SCO member countries on the sidelines of the main event. His itinerary further includes attending the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, an event celebrating Central Asia’s rich cultural heritage.
This comprehensive visit underscores India’s steadfast commitment to deepening its economic, strategic, and connectivity ties with the Central Asian region. Leveraging platforms like the SCO is crucial for advancing India’s regional priorities.