Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Jamshid Kuchkarov held talks in New Delhi, UzDaily.uz reported, citing the Indian Ministry of Finance, citing the ANI news agency.
The two sides held a substantive exchange of views on strengthening institutional cooperation, expanding trade and investment ties, and developing the financial sector. The meeting was part of New Delhi's systemic policy of deepening partnerships with Central Asian countries.
Uzbekistan, as the most populous country and a key economy in the region, occupies a central place in India's Central Asian strategy. Particular attention was paid to the creation of a reliable financial and economic platform for the implementation of joint regional and logistics projects.
The talks between the financial ministries in New Delhi reflect the transition of Uzbek-Indian cooperation to the practical implementation of large-scale agreements. The prospects for bilateral relations are determined by several strategic factors:
Development of logistics and transport corridors. For landlocked Tashkent, India is a crucial partner in developing the Iranian port of Chabahar and integrating into the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). This opens Uzbekistan a shortcut to the markets of South Asia.
Financial and technological integration. Elevating relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership creates conditions for facilitating interbank settlements, implementing innovative payment systems (such as India's UPI), and expanding joint investment projects.
Industry cooperation. Key growth areas remain pharmaceuticals, information technology, mining, energy, and agriculture. For India, Uzbekistan serves as a stable bridge to Central Asia, while for Tashkent, India is a large market and a source of high technology.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
September 14, 2026