NEW DELHI: India and Uzbekistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership by expanding cooperation in critical minerals, mining, trade, energy, infrastructure, defence and education following high-level talks in New Delhi.

The discussions took place between External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov, who is on a four-day official visit to India.

Welcoming the visiting delegation, Dr. Jaishankar described Uzbekistan as an important partner in India's "extended neighbourhood" and highlighted the deep historical, cultural and civilisational ties that bind the two countries. He noted that bilateral relations have evolved significantly in recent years, with collaboration spanning construction, digital technology, healthcare, energy and education.

Highlighting new areas of engagement, the External Affairs Minister said both countries are looking to deepen cooperation in mining, particularly in critical minerals and rare earth resources, which are becoming increasingly important for future industries and clean energy technologies. He also noted that bilateral trade has reached nearly USD 1 billion and expressed optimism about further growth in commercial exchanges.

The two leaders conducted a comprehensive review of the India-Uzbekistan strategic partnership, focusing on trade, energy, infrastructure, defence, education and cultural ties. They also exchanged views on regional and international developments and discussed strengthening coordination in multilateral forums.

On security, Dr. Jaishankar said India and Uzbekistan share a common approach towards combating terrorism, extremism and drug trafficking. He welcomed Uzbekistan's consistent support for a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, including cross-border terrorism and the use of terror safe havens.

The External Affairs Minister also thanked Uzbekistan for supporting India's priorities during its BRICS Presidency in 2026 and reiterated New Delhi's support for Uzbekistan's candidature to chair the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) for the 2027-2029 term.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Saidov called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Murmu said the long-standing friendship between India and Uzbekistan provides a strong foundation for expanding cooperation in emerging sectors.

She identified mining and rare earth minerals, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and information technology as areas with immense potential for collaboration. The President also highlighted the growing educational partnership between the two countries, noting that more than 3,000 Uzbek officials, professionals and students have benefited from India's Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme and scholarship schemes. She added that over 16,000 Indian students are currently pursuing higher education in Uzbekistan.

As part of the visit, an India-Uzbekistan Business Forum was organised to encourage greater trade and investment, foster business partnerships and explore new opportunities for economic cooperation between the two countries.