Modi visits Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan to discuss BRICS and the UN — The Hindu

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will discuss cooperation with Central Asian countries, as well as issues related to the BRICS summit and a two-year term on the UN Security Council in 2028–2029, during a four-day visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic. The Hindu reports.

Trip agenda

Modi’s visit is also expected to focus on strengthening India’s relations with Iran, Tajikistan and other Central Asian states. The topics include preparations for the India–Central Asia summit, which has not been held since 2022, as well as events related to the upcoming BRICS summit in September.

According to the publication, experts believe that the lengthy break in holding the India–Central Asia summit has prompted assumptions in the region that New Delhi’s interest in this format has weakened. During the current trip, the main challenge for the Indian prime minister will be to change this perception.

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Trade and connectivity

In 2015, Modi visited all five Central Asian states and declared India’s intention to restore ties with the region. The Connect Central Asia policy was launched by Manmohan Singh’s government in 2012; at the time, increased trade, travel and the development of pipeline projects were expected.

According to The Hindu, merchandise trade between India and Central Asia grew from $500 million in 2010 to more than $2 billion in 2025. At the same time, prospects for developing connectivity with the region have been significantly limited by geopolitical changes.