PM Modi Strengthens International Relations at SCO Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a series of high-level discussions with leaders from Central Asia and beyond during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in Tianjin, China on October 15, 2023. His meetings focused on enhancing bilateral relationships and exploring collaborative opportunities across multiple sectors.

In a conversation with Serdar Berdimuhamedow, President of Turkmenistan, PM Modi shared insights on various regional issues. Modi described their dialogue as a meaningful exchange of perspectives, highlighting the importance of cooperation between their nations.

He also met with Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan, emphasizing the “dynamic partnership” that exists between India and Uzbekistan. Modi noted the expanding ties in culture, economy, and people-to-people connections as pivotal to their ongoing collaboration.

Another significant interaction took place with Sadyr Japarov, President of Kyrgyzstan. Modi characterized their discussion as “very productive,” affirming the robust partnership shared by the two countries. He expressed a commitment to intensify developmental cooperation to benefit both nations.

The Prime Minister’s engagements extended to multiple leaders. He met with Thongloun Sisoulith, President of Laos, discussing the potential for closer friendship, particularly in trade and cultural exchanges. Modi’s interaction with Nikol Pashinyan, the Armenian Prime Minister, revealed a shared interest in nurturing the warm ties between India and Armenia.

In addition, he held talks with Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of Vietnam, where both leaders expressed a desire to deepen cooperation in defense, trade, and green energy. Modi’s meeting with Mostafa Madbouly, the Egyptian Prime Minister, highlighted the progress in friendship between India and Egypt.

Conversations with Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kazakhstan, and Emomali Rahmon, President of Tajikistan, further solidified India’s engagement in Central Asia, with Modi noting the increasing trade and cultural linkages as encouraging signs for future collaboration.

Additionally, Modi met with Alexander Lukashenko, President of Belarus, discussing optimistic prospects for beneficial opportunities ahead. His conversations with Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Maldives, focused on the positive impacts of India’s developmental cooperation for both nations. Lastly, he concluded his talks with KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal, calling the bilateral ties “deep-rooted and very special.”

The summit showcased Modi’s commitment to strengthening ties with various nations, reinforcing India’s role in international cooperation. The reception by Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan marked a warm welcome as Modi arrived to participate in the official reception for Heads of State and Heads of Government.