Shujaat Ali Quadri: India-Uzbekistan Relations: A Growing Bond of Culture and Trade

India and Uzbekistan share a historical relationship that dates back centuries — from the Silk Road to the modern era, the two nations have been connected by deep cultural affinities and expanding economic interests. In recent years, India-Uzbekistan relations have witnessed a resurgence, driven by shared geopolitical goals, vibrant cultural ties, and growing trade partnerships.

Cultural Foundations: A Shared Heritage

Cultural linkages between India and Uzbekistan are centuries old, rooted in the shared history of the Silk Road, Sufism, and the legacy of Mughal Emperor Babur, who was born in the Fergana Valley of present-day Uzbekistan. These connections continue to influence modern diplomacy and people-to-people engagement.

Historical Ties: The Baburnama, written by Babur, provides insight into the intertwined histories of the Indian subcontinent and Central Asia. The architectural styles, music, and cuisine of India and Uzbekistan also reflect mutual influence over centuries.

Sufi and Spiritual Bonds: Sufism has acted as a strong cultural bridge between the two nations. Prominent Sufi shrines in Uzbekistan and India attract scholars and devotees, creating a common spiritual connection.

Education and People-to-People Contact: Indian films, music, and yoga enjoy wide popularity in Uzbekistan. Indian universities have seen increasing numbers of Uzbek students pursuing higher education, especially in medicine and technology. Initiatives like cultural festivals, exchange programs, and scholarships have further deepened mutual understanding.

Trade and Economic Relations: A Growing Partnership

India and Uzbekistan have significantly enhanced their trade and investment cooperation, especially since Uzbekistan’s independence in 1991. In the last decade, bilateral economic ties have expanded into key areas like pharmaceuticals, energy, information technology, textiles, and agriculture.

Trade Volume: Bilateral trade has been steadily growing, although it still remains below potential. In 2023, trade crossed the $500 million mark, with India exporting pharmaceuticals, machinery, and consumer goods, while importing fruits, dry fruits, and raw materials from Uzbekistan.

Connectivity and Infrastructure: India has been actively supporting connectivity projects such as the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and Chabahar Port in Iran, which aim to provide India access to Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, bypassing traditional routes. India is also exploring direct air cargo and rail freight routes to enhance trade connectivity.

Energy and Natural Resources: Uzbekistan, rich in uranium and natural gas, is a potential partner for India’s energy security. Discussions have taken place regarding cooperation in renewable energy, especially solar, where India has emerged as a global leader.

Pharmaceutical and Health Sector: Indian pharmaceutical companies have made significant inroads in the Uzbek market, offering affordable and high-quality medicines. There is also growing cooperation in healthcare and medical tourism.

IT and Innovation: India’s IT expertise is being leveraged to support Uzbekistan’s digital transformation. Collaborations in digital education, e-governance, and technology transfer have been steadily growing.

Strategic and Regional Importance

India views Uzbekistan as a key partner in Central Asia, both strategically and economically. The two countries share concerns regarding terrorism, extremism, and regional instability, particularly in Afghanistan. Regular bilateral summits, defense cooperation, and joint working groups on security reflect a shared interest in regional peace and development.

Looking Ahead: Potential and Promise

The India-Uzbekistan relationship holds immense potential. To fully harness it, both countries need to focus on:

Removing trade barriers and simplifying customs procedures

Promoting tourism and easing visa policies

Enhancing academic and cultural exchanges

Deepening cooperation in renewable energy and technology

Encouraging joint ventures and investments in manufacturing and agriculture

India-Uzbekistan relations are a blend of deep historical ties and modern strategic cooperation. Culture remains a powerful connector, while trade and economic collaboration offer a path toward mutual growth and prosperity. As both nations look to the future, the relationship promises to be one of the cornerstones of India’s “Connect Central Asia” policy — fostering peace, progress, and partnership in the heart of Eurasia.

(Dr Shujaat Ali Quadri)
(The Author is the Editor of Times Headline, Beside that he is the deputy director of Indo Islamic Heritage Center,  he is also an advocate for Sufism and Indian Islamic cultural heritage, He Can be reach at [email protected])