Reinforcing strong relation, India Uzbekistan etch 17 pacts including national security, counter terrorism and various other fields

New Delhi, October 1: Reinforcing a strong friendship, India and Uzbekistan have etched pacts on various fields. The two countries have reaffirmed their interest in expanding and further strengthening long-term cooperation between India and Uzbekistan, covering diverse sectors such as political ties, defence, security, counter-terrorism, trade and investment, science and technology, space, nuclear energy, Information Technology, as well as cultural and academic linkages.

 

India and Uzbekistan inked 17 agreements on Monday, including for visa free travel for diplomatic passport holders and cooperation in the field of tourism, national security, training of diplomat and trafficking.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev held delegation level talks and agreed to collaborate with each other. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also expressed his deep respect for the people of India. He said India is a country with an ancient history, religious culture and political, economic and intellectual potential.

 

Earlier in the day, Mirziyoyev had praised India saying, “At the moment, India is a rapidly developing nation. India is confidently strengthening its role as global power”.

The two sides discussed the situation in Afghanistan and noted that establishment of peace and stability in that country is of great significance to the security and stability of the entire region. They reiterated support for efforts of the Government and the people for a genuine Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan controlled peace and reconciliation process that would allow for a peaceful, secure, united, inclusive and prosperous nation.

 

The sides shared the view that countering terrorism in all its forms and manifestations without distinction is important for sustainable peace and security in Afghanistan. They expressed continued support for reconstruction and revival of the country. The Sides agreed to have regular dialogue.

India and Uzbekistan reaffirmed that the United Nations must play a central role in maintaining global peace and security, and in development and advancing international cooperation. They agreed to strengthen their mutual support and cooperation in the United Nations and other international and regional organizations. Further, they agreed to further strengthen mutual cooperation under the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and its Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure.