Tashkent /New Delhi, 30 August (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute at the Yangi Uzbekistan Park in Tashkent during his state visit to Uzbekistan, underscoring the longstanding civilisational and people-to-people ties between India and Uzbekistan.

PM Modi laid a wreath at the monument at the park in the presence of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The visit to the landmark was part of the Prime Minister’s engagements during his two-day state visit to Uzbekistan on August 29-30.

The solemn ceremony reflected the importance attached by both sides to their historical links and shared cultural heritage. The Yangi Uzbekistan Park and its monument symbolise Uzbekistan’s national journey, heritage and aspirations, providing a significant setting for the Indian Prime Minister’s tribute.

Modi’s visit to the park came after he arrived in Tashkent on Saturday at the invitation of President Mirziyoyev. The Uzbek President personally received him, highlighting the warmth and importance attached to the bilateral relationship.

The Prime Minister has described India-Uzbekistan relations as a strategic partnership that has gained considerable momentum in recent years. Ahead of his visit, PM Modi said he looked forward to discussions with Mirziyoyev on further expanding cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence and energy, as well as advancing the shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan.

The wreath-laying ceremony at Yangi Uzbekistan Park also served as a symbolic expression of the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries. India and Uzbekistan share historical connections extending across centuries, while contemporary cooperation encompasses a wide range of areas, including economic ties, education, healthcare, culture, defence and technology.

PM Modi is on a four-day visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic from August 29 to September 1. After completing his engagements in Tashkent, he is scheduled to travel to Bishkek to participate in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the visit is aimed at strengthening India’s strategic partnerships in Central Asia, deepening civilisational links with the region and advancing shared objectives of peace, stability and prosperity.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar