India and Uzbekistan engaged in discussions regarding significant bilateral matters, highlighting the necessity for the prompt and effective execution of agreements established by their leaders. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with his Uzbek counterpart Bakhtiyor Saidov in Baku during a one-day visit to Azerbaijan on Friday, where they reviewed the progress of their bilateral relations.

Jaishankar shared a photograph with Saidov on X, expressing his pleasure in meeting the Uzbek Foreign Minister. Although he did not elaborate on the specifics of their discussions, Saidov later confirmed that they addressed key issues on the bilateral agenda, reiterating the importance of timely implementation of high-level agreements.

Saidov arrived in Baku from Georgia after participating in the inaugural joint meeting of foreign ministers from Georgia and five Central Asian nations: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. This context underscores the regional diplomatic engagements taking place in Baku.

Recent High-Level Exchanges Between India and Uzbekistan

India and Uzbekistan have conducted numerous high-level exchanges throughout the year, as reported by Press Trust of India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Uzbekistan in August marked a significant milestone, during which he was awarded the Oliy Darajali Do’stlik Order, the highest honour for foreign leaders in Uzbekistan.

During Modi’s two-day visit, both nations elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, setting an ambitious bilateral trade target of $5 billion. Additionally, they signed eleven agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including mining and tourism. A notable agreement established a framework for the long-term supply of uranium from Uzbekistan to India.

The agreements and discussions reflect a commitment to strengthening ties and fostering mutual economic growth between the two countries. The focus on strategic partnerships indicates a shared vision for future collaboration in multiple fields.

Cultural and Economic Engagements in Azerbaijan

On the same day, Jaishankar visited the historic Ateshgah fire temple near Baku, which he described as a representation of the historical and cultural connection between India and Azerbaijan. The temple, predominantly constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries, was frequented by Hindu and Sikh merchants from the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent. Its walls feature inscriptions in Sanskrit and Gurmukhi, showcasing the cultural ties between the two nations.

During his meeting with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, Jaishankar characterised their discussions as productive, contributing to the advancement of bilateral relations. The dialogue encompassed expanding economic cooperation in trade, investment, and energy, with an emphasis on enhancing connectivity.

Further discussions included air links, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges, all aimed at fostering a closer relationship between India and Azerbaijan. Both countries are engaged in the International North-South Transport Corridor, a freight network that connects India with Iran, the Caspian region, Russia, Central Asia, and Europe, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts in a globalised economy.

Jaishankar also expressed gratitude to Azerbaijan for its assistance in evacuating Indian nationals, particularly students, from Iran during a regional conflict earlier this year. This aspect of cooperation underscores the significance of diplomatic relations in addressing immediate humanitarian needs.

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