Category: Speeches of Ambassador

Remarks at Inauguration Ceremony of Indian Film Festival 2026
Hotel Hyatt Regency, Tashkent; March 12, 2026

1. Welcome to the 2nd edition of the Sashakt Nari – an Indian Film Festival dedicated to women, their resilience, grit and aspirations. Let me first thank Mr. Shukratulla Rizayev, Director of the Cinematography Agency of Uzbekistan and Palace of National Cinematic Art for their incredible support. Mr. Umesh Mehra, the renowned Indian Film Maker is amongst us and needs no introduction in Uzbekistan. His film Ali Baba va Qirq Qaroqchi, a co-production between India and Uzbekistan could be actually referred to as a shared heritage. My heartfelt gratitude to all my women friends, Hon’ble Members of Parliament, friends from MOFA, representatives from the Ministry of Sports and Wrestling Federation of Uzbekistan, friends from the diplomatic community, representatives from the Committee of Women and Family Affairs, Business Association, film makers, artists and friends from the media for their presence and wonderful support.

2. India and Uzbekistan friendship is time tested. We have had continual exchanges of ideas, art and culture over centuries. Today, cinema has become one of the most powerful bridges connecting our people transcending language barriers and bringing together emotions and shared human experiences. As we talk on core issues relating to women, I recall the words of Erkin Vohidov who said, “Ayolga ta’zim Ayol dunyoning ko‘zgusi, Ayol qalbning eng nozik nidosi” – Woman is the mirror of the world, Woman is the finest voice of the heart. Zulfiya, one of the prominent female voices in Uzbek literature said, “Bahor keldi seni so‘roqlab, Salom aytib o‘tdi shamollar” – Spring has come, inquiring about you, greeting you, the winds have passed by.

3. Friends, last year we showcased movies challenging gender sensitivity and stereotypes, issues relating to single mother and her challenges, struggle of a para-athlete and her fight for recognition. This year we bring an equally diverse mix of movies on women fighting gender biases to become successful wrestlers, Dangal movie is based on real life. Dear Zindagi is about mental health and emotions that we often hesitate to talk about. Tanvi the Great is a story of a young women’s resilience, Tanu Weds Manu is a hilarious and entertaining story of a woman who does not fit in, does not confirm to stereotypical norms. I hope these movies will make us reflect, generate and encourage honest conversations on women, their rights, their needs and their sense of being. I do strongly feel that issues relating to women deserve our collective energies and joint efforts. In India, a country of 1.4 billion people where women constitute about half of our population, tremendous efforts are underway. Things have changed on the ground towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment. We still have more work to do. In Uzbekistan, as we celebrate the spirit of Women’s Day, I recall the words of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev who has referred to women as creators of Yangi Uzbekistan and has repeatedly emphasized their role in country’s development. I am happy that we will be having a panel discussion in which the experts would speak on how women can transform social narratives and perspectives through cinema. I also want to mention that India and Uzbekistan are exploring new avenues of cooperation between women entrepreneurs, women players including hockey, wrestling and football. Also wanted to inform that we have amongst us women representatives from the Ministry of Finance who will be visiting India for the Women Leadership Programme. Under our capacity building exchanges, over the last few years, 2700 Uzbek nationals have visited India and more than 40% of them have been women. Our efforts will continue.

Last but not the least. Belated wishes to all of you my dear friends on International Women’s Day.

Yana bir muhim narsa. Aziz do‘stlarim, barchangizni o‘tib ketgan bo‘lsa-da, Xalqaro xotin-qizlar kuni bilan tabriklayman.

Hindiston va O’zbekistaon do’stona aloqalari abadiy bo’lsin!

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Remarks by Ambassador at ITEC Day 2026

Hotel Hilton, Tashkent; March 6, 2026

1. It is an honour to stand before you today as we celebrate the 61^st Anniversary of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation program – ITEC. Since 1964, ITEC has been one of the cornerstones of India’s foreign policy, rooted in the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family. We view this partnership as a partnership of shared knowledge and mutual growth.
2. As we look at our bilateral relationship, the ITEC numbers tell a story of extraordinary momentum. Over the 30-year history of our partnership, more than 2,700 Uzbek professionals have participated in ITEC. However, the most striking statistic is this: over 1,100 of those candidates, nearly 43% of our historical total, were trained in just the last five years. This massive acceleration signals that India and Uzbekistan are not just partners; we are accelerating together into a new era of capacity building.

3. ITEC is uniquely designed for working professionals and government officials. When an ITEC scholar returns from India, they bring back expertise that is immediately applied to Uzbekistan’s home institutions.

4. People often ask: “Is ITEC keeping up with the times?” My answer is a resounding yes. While we continue to offer our world-class traditional courses in banking, finance, and management, we have pivoted sharply toward the future. In the last two years, Uzbek professionals have been training at prestigious institutes like IIT Kanpur in courses like Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Machine Learning, Digital Health, Robotics, Big Data, and Solar Energy. We are ensuring our cooperation is as modern as the new Uzbekistan itself.

5. I am particularly proud to highlight our progress in gender inclusivity. For the second year in a row, more than 40% of our participants have been women. This is not a coincidence; it is a consistent reflection of our shared “Empowered Woman” initiatives and commitment to inclusive growth.

6. To meet this growing demand, India currently offers nearly 200 slots per year for Uzbekistan. And let me be clear: while we have set numbers, our commitment is flexible. If the requirement grows, we are fully prepared to increase these seats to match your ambitions.

7. Sixty-one years ago, ITEC began as a small seed. Today, it has grown into a massive tree of cooperation. The fact that nearly half of our three-decade success has occurred in just the last five years proves that our best days are ahead of us. To our ITEC alumni – you are the permanent bridges connecting our two great countries.  We wish you all success in your future endeavours.

8. I am happy to inform you that the Embassy of India in collaboration with the Cinematography Agency of Uzbekistan, is organizing the second edition of women-centric Indian Film Festival ‘Sashakt Nari-Celebrating Womanhood’ showcasing five films – featuring women in lead roles overcoming challenges and adversities through courage and resilience. The film screenings will be held from March 13-15, 2026 at the Palace of National Cinematic Art, 15 Alisher Navoiy, Tashkent. You are all invited to attend.

Wishing you all a Happy ITEC Day once again!

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Remarks by Ambassador during 3-day Online Module on Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence by SSIFS January 19, 2026

Ambassador Abdusamat Khaydarov, Director, University of World Economy & Diplomacy (UWED)

Ambassador R K Srivastava, Dean, Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS),

Ambassador Sardor Rustambaev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to India

Distinguished speakers, officials from Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ladies and gentlemen,

This three-day module on Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence could not have been more timely particularly in context of regional and global geopolitical developments.

We have convened not just to discuss technology, but to understand how global strategic environment is being redefined in the 21^st century.  Tomorrow’s geopolitical outcomes will be shaped by understanding of information, data, networks, algorithms and the security of those systems.

I quote my Prime Minister here – AI is writing the code for humanity in this century.  It is reshaping our polity, economy, our security and shaping our society and sense of responsibility must guide us and therefore the need to collectively pool our resources and uphold shared values.

I am also recalling words of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev when he spoke recently at the expanded meeting of the Security Council:

“…Anyone who believes victory can be ensured solely through the number of tanks, aircraft, or soldiers is deeply mistaken. Today’s conflicts are waged using artificial intelligence, digital command and control systems, long-range precision strike capabilities, cyber and robotic technologies, as well as political and economic pressure.”

This statement is indeed a strategic diagnosis rooted in the realities of our interconnected age. States and non-state actors alike are leveraging digital tools not just for economic growth, but for influence, coercion, and even disruption of social cohesion. Cyberattacks, disinformation, AI-driven decision-making, automated systems – these are the battlegrounds of the future. Nations that fail to secure their digital frontiers will find themselves vulnerable not only to economic loss, but that the erosion could be of sovereignty. There is message for all of us gathered here, cybersecurity and AI are no longer niche disciplines – they are foundational pillars of national resilience, economic competitiveness and diplomatic influence. For us diplomats, understanding this becomes key.

Uzbekistan is accelerating its technological transformation. Through the Digital Uzbekistan-2030 strategy and significant new national commitments to artificial intelligence, data infrastructure and digital skills, the government has signaled that this domain is a national priority with ambitious plans for training millions of citizens in AI capabilities by the end of this decade. Uzbekistan has also highlighted the central role of digitalization and artificial intelligence in driving sustainable economic growth and enhancing governance and people at large. I am also happy to note that first Data Center in Uzbekistan is being built by an Indian company, Larsen & Toubro.

In this shared journey, India is a natural partner for Uzbekistan. India has rapidly ascended as a global tech powerhouse – with expertise in AI research, cybersecurity. Indian institutions and private sector leaders are being building deep capabilities in defensive cyber operations, secure cloud ecosystems, AI-based analytics, and resilient networks.

The potential for technology partnerships, expert training programmes, and exchange of knowledge is enormous.

I am sure that this three-day module will be beneficial to the participants from UWED and we will certainly look forward to your feedback. My best wishes to all of you for an engaging and learning experience.

Also just wanted to again inform that India is organizing AI Impact Global Summit, next month, which will further advance global dialogue on Artificial Intelligence.  We expect a senior delegation from Uzbekistan to visit India and further cement our partnership in this important area.

I thank SSIFS for organizing this event.  My deepest thanks to UWED as well.  We hope that both SSIFS and UWED are able to organize more such significant events in line with our Strategic Partnership.  I also hope that Dean SSIFS pays a visit to Tashkent as cooperation deepens between two institutes.

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Inaugural Address by Ambassador at Conference on Medical Tourism in India

Hotel Hyatt Regency, Tashkent; December 12, 2025

Distinguished Guests,

For any health care system to be efficient and responsive, it must be affordable, accessible and it must be transparent. In a world where healthcare is not accessible to all, this must essentially be seen as service to humanity and not just a corporate venture.

It means that a good health care system should not just be able to detect, assess and respond, it should do so in minimal time, at an affordable cost and must do so with a compassionate and beneficence approach.

Yesterday, I had discussions with some of my hospitals which are present here today and what struck me was all of them have been involved in providing health care services on pro bono basis in Uzbekistan.

I was, therefore, very  pleased when I was informed that they had been actively involved in conducting free OPD camps focusing on cardiology oncology neurology, sending super specialists from India to hospitals here, organizing conferences in oncology  including the one in held in May last year which was attended by 550 doctors, conducting proton therapy treatments, undertaking liver transplants at the National Medical Centre in Tashkent and training Uzbek doctors every year on orthopaedic surgeries, liver transplant, onco-surgery, radiation oncology.

These are significant milestones and reflective of the spirit which guides Indian healthcare system and also Indian doctors are known for their expertise and life-saving skills worldwide.

Back home, India currently has strength of 1.4 million doctors supported by trained, efficient and skilled nurses and paramedics.

Several hospitals in India are JCI / NABH-accredited, ensuring global standards. The range of medical services be it cardiac surgery, joint replacement, organ transplants, fertility treatments, oncology, and wellness therapies are something that experts will speak on and let us also not forget India’s expertise in wellness therapies, Ayurveda, Yoga and naturopathy.

I think what really stands out in all this is the point I made earlier – the affordability factor. The costs at which services are offered can be seen and compared with other countries.

People’s lives are to be handled with a compassionate approach. Every life matters. I would request my hospitals to contribute even more in the area of capacity building.

Going forward, we will continue to organise more camps with the help of our super specialists focusing on the imminent needs of Uzbekistan. We will continue to hold hands and ensure that not just medical care but quality attention is also given by our hospitals. From Embassy, I can assure that visas will never be a constraint and we will facilitate quick travel of our Uzbek friends to India.

More importantly, let’s not forget that India-Uzbekistan relation is underpinned by strong people-to-people ties. The links between our peoples are a vital component of our strategic partnership and I am glad that our hospitals and our illustrious doctors on both sides appreciate the special ties we have with the people of Uzbekistan.

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Speech by Ambassador at Military University of Security and Defence  Tashkent  October 8, 2025

Maj General Farkhodjon Shermatov, First Deputy Head of University of Military Security and Defence, distinguished officials from the Ministry of Defence, faculty members, dear friends, Good afternoon.

It is indeed a great privilege to be here today at the Military Security and Defence University on the occasion of the formal handing over of three software solutions developed by the Indian Army Training Team in collaboration with this prestigious institution.

Today’s event is not merely a technical milestone; it is a celebration of partnership, innovation, and shared progress between India and Uzbekistan. Our cooperation with your esteemed institution has been robust and enduring. The deployment of the first Training Team in 2021, the establishment of the state-of-the-art IT & Cyber-Security Lab in April 2024 and subsequent deployment of the second Military Training team in August last year highlight our intent to build capacities, not just in terms of technology and equipment, but more importantly focusing on ‘human resource’. We are happy that exchanges between two sides have been steady and continued imparting momentum to our partnership. We are expecting a visit by faculty and students of the Army War College, led by Commandant of the College, Lt Gen HS Sahi in November I will be proposing the signing of an MoU between your University and the Army War College as this would further expand institutional connect and present opportunities to both sides to benefit.

Technology will transform the way we defend our nations. The future battlefield will be defined by speed, precision and intelligence. AI will be key in providing situational awareness. It is heartening that Uzbekistan Ministry of Defence has undertaken steps towards digitisation of the military education and the recent institutionalisation of this University as an umbrella organisation encompassing five military institutes is in sync with this larger mission.

I also take this opportunity to commend the dedicated members of the Indian Army Training Team as well as the faculty of the University for their commitment, creativity, and professionalism as evident by the success of this project and I am sanguine that these software projects will not only enhance the capacities and technological edge of the students of this esteemed institution, but will also be of value in University’s broader aim of being a leading institution in technology and innovation in the area of military education.

Dear friends, defence cooperation is a major component of the bilateral cooperation between India and Uzbekistan. Our nations have major stakes in regional security. Just few days back, the Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism met and we agreed to further strengthen our cooperation in counter terrorism and radicalization.

I look forward to the continued and renewed cooperation between our two nations in the years to come and once again congratulate the University of Military Security and Defence and the Indian Army Training Team for their continued efforts towards strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Thank you.

Speech by the Ambassador at the 70th anniversary celebrations of the Tashkent University of Information Technologies

Tashkent; September 24, 2025

Hon’ble Minister of Digital Technologies Mr. Sherzod Shermatov, Rector, Tashkent University of Information Technologies (TUIT), Prof. Bakhtiyor Makhkamov, faculty members and students of TUIT, distinguished guests, scholars, ladies and gentlemen,

Assalamu alaykum. Namaste.

It is an honour and privilege for me to join you on this very occasion-the 70th anniversary of the Tashkent University of Information Technology, an institution that stands as a beacon of learning and innovation in Uz-bekistan and the wider Central Asian region.

Seventy years is not merely a milestone in numbers. It represents dec-ades of dedication, scholarship, and the nurturing of generations of stu-dents who today form the backbone of Yangi Uzbekistan’s progress in science, technology and digital economy. Over the years, TUIT has been able to keep pace with the rapid global transformation in the field of in-formation technology.

India deeply values its partnership with Uzbekistan particularly in educa-tion and digital technology. Both our countries share a common vision of harnessing technology for inclusive growth. India’s experiences from its own journey – from building its IT industry in the 1990s to becoming a global hub for software, digital services, and innovation today – offers in-sights and opportunities for collaboration with friends and partners like Uzbekistan. In 2009, in this very university, the ‘India-Uzbek Centre for Information Technologies’ got established, a testimony to India’s long-standing friendly ties with Uzbekistan.

As some of you are aware, India will be hosting the AI Impact Summit in on February 18, 2026. In this era of rapidly evolving AI, collective or col-laborative frameworks are needed. Without cooperation, there’s risk of biases, disinformation and misuse. Artificial Intelligence offers great po-tential for improving health, education, agriculture, etc especially to the countries of Global South. However, we need to focus capacity be it in computing power, talent, data or financial resources.

As Hon’ble Minister of Digital Technology is also present amongst us, I wish to inform him and others on research symposium on AI and its im-pact being held that will bring researchers, students, industry and poli-cymakers to explore frontiers of responsible and ethnical, accountable AI. We invite students, faculty and researchers of Uzbekistan to partici-pate.

Going forward, I would like to underline three areas where our coopera-tion can further deepen: –

Fintech, Startups and Innovation Ecosystems: The youthful energy of both our nations is our greatest resource. Connecting young entrepre-neurs from TUIT with India’s startup ecosystem can create a powerful bridge of innovation between South and Central Asia.

Innovation is the backbone of a nation. In this regard, I also wish to quote President Mirziyoyev “Innovation is the key to our future. We must create an environment where new ideas flourish, and young minds are empowered to drive progress in science, technology and the economy”.

On Startups, we propose to have a startup bridge between India and Uzbekistan constituted.

Dear students of TUIT, your talent and dedication in the field of IT are vi-tal in driving forward the President Mirziyoyev’s vision of making Uzbeki-stan a global hub of digital innovation and progress. I wish you the best and am sure that you will successfully transform the digital landscape in Uzbekistan.

I will end with a thought from India’s former President and scientist, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: “Dreams transform into thoughts, and thoughts result into action.” May the dreams nurtured at TUIT continue to transform Uz-bekistan’s digital future, and may India and Uzbekistan walk together on this path of knowledge and innovation.

Hindiston va O’zbekiston do’stona aloqalari abadiy bo’lsin!

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Speech by the Ambassador at the Inauguration Ceremony of the 7th International Conference on Yoga

Hotel Hilton, Tashkent; September 17, 2025

Mr. Jakhongir Artykhodjaev, Chairman, Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan

Mr. Sharifjon Muminjanov, Adviser, Ministry of Sports

Mr. Abhay Kumar, DDG, ICCR

Mr. Mumtaz Ali

Dear Friends,

We are happy that the 7^th International Conference on Yoga and first ever in Central Asia is being held in Uzbekistan today- a country with which India has since long shared civilisational affinities.

This is the largest ICCR organized international conference on yoga held till date with participation of experts from 10 countries. That it is being held in Uzbekistan is significant. This region, once the heart of the Silk Road, has always been a melting pot of cultures and ideas. It is therefore the most apt venue for holding a conference on yoga, a discipline that promotes of unity and oneness of humanity.

Friends, experts will share their views on the wisdom of Yoga. I wish to point that Yoga, today, is amongst the fastest growing economic industry globally.  Today, yoga industry is growing at more than 9 percent with an expected market size to be over USD 200 billion by 2030 with US, India, China, UK and Germany being the top five markets.

We shouldn’t be surprised as 21st century is saddled with mental health disorder. It is a general perception that as 20^th century was the age of industrialization, this is the age of anxiety. WHO report mentions that over 1 billion people are living with mental health disorders worldwide. So imagine people around you and me in our neighbourhood in our families and if I may candidly say so, even some amongst us may have suffered or are facing some mental health issues on a daily basis impacting our lives our relationships and our very own being. Therefore, the work of Yoga Federation and Ministry of Sports in Uzbekistan and work of Ministry of Ayush and ICCR in India is noble and important. We are discussing and getting it to the very core of both our hardware and software if we are to function in harmony and to our fullest potential.

Yoga is helping attract more tourism to countries around the world be it
Bali (Ubud) in Indonesia, Chiang Mai / Koh Samui, Thailand, Byron Bay in Australia, Ibiza in Spain –Santorini in Greece Sinai in Egypt, sacred valley in Peru or nature immersed retreats in Costa Rica and list goes on. Uzbekistan and other countries in Central Asia with their incredible landscape and beauty can also harness this opportunity. For that, India can offer the skill and resource training so that the right form of asanas, postures of Yoga are taught and practised and also if I may say so, misperceptions about Yoga get addressed.

In this regard, I reiterate what my PM said on IDY that got commemorated at UN in New York in June 2023 and what Mr. Jahongir has also echoed.

“Yoga is free of copyrights, patents and royalty payments. Yoga is adaptable to your age, gender and fitness level. Yoga is portable and is truly universal.”

Yoga practitioners in Uzbekistan have demonstrated their skill and understanding of Yoga by securing 26 medals at the 2^nd Yogasana Asian Championship. Kudos ! It would not have been possible without the active involvement of the Yoga Federation. Also, commendable to see how the system of certifying yoga instructors is working in Uzbekistan. Close to 200 people have obtained certificates from the Yoga Certification Board and now we are looking at training the teachers, having joint project and researches on benefits of yoga and also frequent exchanges between our scholars like Sri M who apart from delivering the keynote address today, will be moderating a session on “Yoga One Earth and One Family later this afternoon. His expertise is being actively sought by many other countries around the world and given his hectic schedule, I wish to thank him for taking time out to attend this conference. Given that the Delhi and Tashkent flight is less than 3 hours, we hope that he will be able to travel more frequently to the beautiful land of Uzbekistan and render his expertise and guidance.

Friends, in this two-day conference, we are expecting tangible outcomes. We are hoping that the participants will be able to suggest implementable ideas on yoga, health policy initiative, training research, joint collaboration etc. We will then take it forward with the help of the two Governments. Needless to add, the Embassy will continue to play the bridge between the nodal institutions on the two sides.

Just want to say that together as we brainstorm these ideas, India and Uzbekistan relations continue to get stronger with each passing day. Our two leaders had a very productive meeting on the sidelines of the SCO summit in China. They apart from several other issues also discussed having stronger cultural and people to people cooperation. Let India Uzbekistan friendship fuelled by love and harmony stay eternal.

Hindiston va O’zbekiston do’stona aloqalari abadiy bo’lsin! 

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Speech by Ambassador at Event to promote Trade, Investment, Culture and Tourism of the State of Uttarakhand

March 17, 2025; 1830 hrs; Hotel Hyatt Regency 

Uttarakhand State is called the land of heavens. Uttarakhand ends like kand like Samarkand. Khand means part and Uttara means north. So, it’s a part which lies in the north hence UK. It is one of the most beautiful states in India and is known for majestic Himalayas, the pristine rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Alaknanda close to some 40 rivers, its charming hill stations like Mussoorie, Nainital, Ranikhet, tranquil lakes and now also for development and growth that has happened across sectors like infrastructure education tourism, agri-processing, health, pharma and alternative medicines.

It hosts the finest health resorts and spiritual destinations, adventure tourism like river water rafting or skiing, wild life tourism, thousands of yoga and ayurveda centres, national parks and historical sites some of them believe to be 2000 years old. Valley of flowers is a UNESCO world heritage side is a spectacle of flowers that bloom during a particular season is in Uttarakhand. Over the years, the state of UK has attracted many tourists including Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, Julia Robert’s, Robert Thurman all visiting the state for finding serenity and calm.

We invite Uzbek nationals to explore this region. We also wish to invite Uzbeki investments into the state of Uttarakhand. The state has a single window clearance offers tax incentives in several areas and is also seeking investments into infrastructure development.

We also want more R and D cooperation as UK has close to 40 universities including some premium ones like IIT Roorkee which are already cooperating with the Samarkand state university. With your own focus on traditional medicines, cooperation in ayurveda and naturopathy for which UK is well known, this could be another area of cooperation.

UK is only few hours away from Delhi and has been a very popular destination for tourism and wellness. UK Government is keen to have Uzbek friends visit the place. They also seek greater collaboration and exchanges in education and hospitality and health. We will be happy to facilitate visit of Uzbek travel companies to the state.

There are niche areas like aroma sector which are also emerging. Also, with UK’s focus on sustainable technology driven and diversified cultivation which focusses on preserving bio diversity, enhancing farmer’s productivity, strengthening market connection and Agro processing, we see potential in having exchanges in these areas as well with your country.

Last but not the least, the cultural wealth of UK is unparalleled. It has variety of folk dances enthralling music, traditional jewellery, paintings, oak, tussar silk to name few. Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage can be showcased to UK and vice versa.

We will also see the cultural wealth of UK through some of the dances today. I think you will gather much more information in the videos we have
prepared for you.

Let’s move towards that.

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Ambassador’s Speech at the Reception on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day of India

January 27, 2025 | 1830 hrs | Hotel Hyatt Regency

Distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, dear friends, and fellow citizens of India,

A very warm and heartfelt welcome to each one of you!

This year, India proudly commemorates 75 years of becoming a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic Republic. The Constitution of India, which came into effect on January 26, 1950, laid the foundation for an inclusive democracy and has since remained the bedrock of India’s socio-economic transformation. As our Hon’ble Prime Minister rightly stated, the Constitution is our guiding light—it is the spirit of India.

As I complete my seventh month in this beautiful country, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation for the warmth and hospitality of the Uzbek people and our friends in the diplomatic community. The deep civilizational and cultural ties between India and Uzbekistan have made this journey especially enriching. And yes—I have thoroughly enjoyed the plov, somsa, and naan here—culinary delights that beautifully mirror India’s own food culture.

Last year, India successfully conducted its General Elections, the largest democratic exercise in the world, with the participation of nearly 650 million eligible voters. The Election Commission of India managed this colossal task efficiently, employing advanced technologies and transparent processes, reaffirming India’s unwavering commitment to democratic values.

The year also witnessed important developments in India-Uzbekistan bilateral relations. A significant highlight was the meeting between Hon’ble Prime Minister of India and Hon’ble President of Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan in October. Uzbekistan’s participation as a Partner Country in BRICS marked a pivotal step in deepening South-South cooperation. We were also pleased to welcome Uzbekistan’s engagement in the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit, particularly in the Trade and Environment Ministerial sessions.

In September, Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman visited Uzbekistan. During her visit, she and H.E. Mr. Jamshid Khodjayev, Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan, signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) to foster long-term investment cooperation. The jointly inaugurated India-Uzbekistan Business Forum attracted over 150 companies. Earlier that month, I had the privilege of leading a delegation of Indian business leaders to Nukus, further advancing regional trade and connectivity.

Other notable visits included the Chief Justice of India, Comptroller and Auditor General, and the Tourism Minister of Goa. During Uzbekistan’s Parliamentary Elections in October, the Chief Election Commissioner of India and Indian observers contributed to the process as part of our electoral cooperation.

We achieved significant progress in enhancing people-to-people ties. With the introduction of new flight routes, Indian tourism to Uzbekistan more than doubled—though we know the potential is far greater. Education links also expanded, with four Indian universities establishing campuses in Uzbekistan and close to 9,000 Indian students currently studying here.

We partnered on environmental initiatives such as Yashil Makon and Plant 4 Mother. In collaboration with the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change, the Embassy organized a plantation drive at our Cultural Centre. I am proud to share that the Indian diaspora in Uzbekistan has planted over 20,000 trees, a remarkable contribution to sustainability. Many of those community leaders are here with us today—thank you for your dedication.

In the defence sector, the sixth edition of Joint Military Exercise Dustlik was successfully conducted in Termez. In April, the Chief of Army Staff of India visited Uzbekistan and inaugurated an IT and Cybersecurity Lab at the Academy of Armed Forces in Tashkent—an important milestone in our defence cooperation.

Bilateral trade reached approximately USD 870 million by November 2024 and is on track to touch USD 1 billion by the end of the fiscal year. Indian investments grew by 81%, especially in pharmaceuticals, IT, and agriculture. However, we recognize that connectivity remains a key challenge. Uzbek products have a natural market in India, but logistical bottlenecks continue to hamper access. I am pleased that both countries held a Joint Working Group meeting on Chabahar Port in Mumbai in November 2024 to address this issue.

Our cultural cooperation continued to flourish. We are thankful to the Uzbek authorities for installing a bust of the legendary actor Raj Kapoor at Alisher Navoi Cinema Palace. A week-long film festival featured the jointly produced film Ali Baba and 40 Thieves, reflecting our cinematic collaboration. Uzbekistan’s participation in International Day of Yoga in June, with over 3,000 enthusiasts, alongside Hon’ble Sports Minister Mr. Ikramov, was truly inspiring. Several Uzbek cultural troupes and film artists also participated in festivals in India, enriching our people-to-people connections.

India’s development cooperation expanded with the provision of computers to 125 schools in Syrdarya Region, and with ongoing projects such as an Allergological Centre in Tashkent and an agriculture project in Kashkadarya Region. Moreover, around 170 Uzbek nationals visited India under various capacity-building programmes in 2024.

Dear guests and friends,

As we look to the future, there is much to be optimistic about. Several high-level visits are planned in the coming months, and we are committed to further enhancing our partnership across all sectors. People-to-people ties, built on trust and shared values, will remain the guiding force in our cooperation.

In her address on the eve of Republic Day, the Hon’ble President of India highlighted the crucial role of women and youth in shaping the country’s destiny. She pointed out that nearly 60% of new teachers in India over the last decade are women—a truly heartening development that reflects our social transformation.

In conclusion, as we celebrate the 76th Republic Day of India, I extend my sincere gratitude to all of you for joining us in this celebration. Let our friendship continue to deepen and thrive with each passing day.

Thank you. Rahmat!

Olg‘a, Hindiston va O‘zbekiston! Bizning do‘stona aloqalarimiz abadiy bo‘lsin!

Ambassador’s Speech at Inauguration Ceremony of Film Festival

Aziz do’stlar va hurmatli mehmonlar,

It is with great privilege that I, on behalf of the Embassy of India, extend a warm welcome to all of you as we celebrate womanhood – Sashakt Nari – through cinema. I express my sincere thanks to Mr. Shukhratulla Rizayev from the Cinematography Agency of Uzbekistan, the Centre of Cinematography Development, and the Palace of National Cinematic Art of Uzbekistan for their splendid support.

Our esteemed guests from India need no introduction. Ms. Saiyami Kher, Mrs. Gauri Shinde, Mr. Abhishek Bachchan and Mr. R. Balki—we couldn’t have had a better delegation today as we organize the Women Film Festival in Tashkent.

Most of us know they have worked together to create one of the finest movies on a woman’s grit, resilience and determination amidst the agony and pain of being rendered handicap in an accident – Ghoomer. It’s a moving story of a sportswoman and how Anina, with the support of her coach Paddy, re-establishes her worth. The film has justly won several awards, and as we celebrate the cause of womanhood, we unanimously selected Ghoomer for the inauguration.

I am delighted that sportswomen including Olympic champion Svetlana Osipova and Ozoda Sobirjanova have joined us. I am also honoured by the presence of Paralympic champions Naimova Guljanoi and Isokova Ziyodakhon, and women representatives from the Public Association of Disabled People (Inclusive Life).

Thank you to the dear women MPs including Ms. Mavlyuda Khodjaeva, Ms. Gulrukh Agzamova, Ms. Mukhtarova Nazira, Deputy Sports Minister Mr. Makhmudov Shakhrillo, my friends from the diplomatic community and international organizations including the UN, members from the Committee of Family and Women, friends of India, media, artist community, and especially people’s artist and hero of Uzbekistan Ms. Munojat Yulchieva. Your gracious presence means a lot to us.

Indian cinema and actors have remained immensely popular in Central Asia, especially in Uzbekistan. Stalwarts like Raj Kapoor, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, and Mithun Chakraborty continue to live in people’s hearts. Just about three months ago, we commemorated Mr. Raj Kapoor’s birth centenary and thank the Cinematography Agency of Uzbekistan for installing a bust in his honour at the Alisher Navoi Cinema Palace.

This four-day film festival dedicated to women highlights both the bilateral cooperation in cinema and the greater cause of womanhood. As we endeavour to ensure that women have greater say and voice—especially on issues that impact them—good cinema can be such a transformative experience.

I vividly remember watching iconic movies being screened in this festival—Ghoomer, English Vinglish, Thappad—and coming back feeling both empowered and pensive. In fact, within three months, we are screening English Vinglish twice in Uzbekistan. There’s no doubt that powerful cinema is always an immersive experience, bringing to light issues often unspoken or brushed aside.

I am glad we are among actors and filmmakers who have boldly highlighted such important issues, challenged gender roles, and contributed to a noble cause. Their films have helped facilitate honest conversations on women—their rights, struggles for empowerment, sense of being, needs, and aspirations.

We all understand that a woman’s journey toward empowerment needs men to be supportive as well. Just a few days back, we attended a wonderful event and heard the Hon’ble President’s thoughts on women’s empowerment, rights, and education. I commend Uzbekistan’s efforts in this regard.

In India, government initiatives continue to focus on eliminating gender-based discrimination and violence, creating an enabling ecosystem for women to thrive as agents of social and economic change. The private sector, NGOs, and cinema have all played significant roles in this journey.

While all this continues, I have no doubt in saying that cinema’s power to question stereotypes and drive change is unique and unparalleled. As a recognition of this, we have invited stalwarts from the Indian film industry.

Thank you all, Ms. Saiyami Kher, Ms. Gauri Shinde, Mr. Abhishek Bachchan and Mr. R. Balki for joining us despite your busy schedules. I am especially happy that Ghoomer, a movie on a woman cricketer’s journey, is being screened at a time when India and Uzbekistan are cooperating in cricket and building cricket infrastructure.

During your brief stay, I am sure you have sensed the strong bonds of friendship between India and Uzbekistan. Indian cinema continues to play a commendable role in bringing our people closer. We look forward to hearing your thoughts on this very important subject.

Hindiston va O’zbekiston do’stona aloqalari abadiy bo’lsin!