H.E. Mr Saidov Bakhtiyor Odilovich, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, called on the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (August 3, 2026).        

Welcoming Mr Odilovich and his delegation to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President said that India and Uzbekistan share deep historical, cultural, and civilizational ties, rooted in ancient trade routes. She highlighted that the shared heritage in architecture, language, cuisine, music, and religious traditions has further strengthened bilateral partnership.

The President said that the presence of high-level leaders in the visiting Uzbek delegation and the organisation of an India-Uzbekistan Business Forum on the sidelines of the visit reflect the growing confidence of businesses of both sides in each other's markets. She also highlighted the immense potential for cooperation between India and Uzbekistan in the mining sector, particularly in rare earth minerals, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and information technology.

The President was happy to note that more than 3,000 officials, professionals and students from Uzbekistan have benefited from our ITEC training courses and other scholarship programs. At the same time over 16,000 Indian students are pursuing higher studies in Uzbekistan. She underlined that they act as a bridge between the two countries and foster mutual understanding and strong people-to-people ties.

The two leaders agreed that discussions held during this visit will further strengthen the bonds of friendship, trust, and cooperation between our two nations.

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MJPS/SS/PRK