‘Order of Oliy Darajali Dustlik’: Uzbekistan confers its highest state honour on PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday conferred Uzbekistan’s highest state honour, the Order of “Oliy Darajali Dustlik”, by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during his two-day state visit to the Central Asian country, in recognition of his contribution to strengthening the India-Uzbekistan strategic partnership and deepening bilateral ties.The prestigious honour was presented to PM Modi in Tashkent as the two leaders held delegation-level talks aimed at expanding cooperation between India and Uzbekistan across several key areas.PM Modi dedicated the honour to the enduring friendship and close ties between India and Uzbekistan, describing it as a recognition of the strong bond between the two countries.The award ceremony came during a series of official engagements that highlighted the growing strategic relationship between New Delhi and Tashkent. The honour also underlined the importance both countries attach to their longstanding partnership and closer cooperation.During their talks, PM Modi and Mirziyoyev discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in areas including trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence and energy.The two leaders also explored ways to advance their shared developmental visions of 'Viksit Bharat' and 'Yangi Uzbekistan', reflecting their focus on economic growth, modernisation and development.The conferment of the Order of “Oliy Darajali Dustlik” marked a significant moment in PM Modi’s visit and added a diplomatic dimension to the expanding India-Uzbekistan relationship.The two-day state visit is focused on further deepening ties between the two countries and identifying new areas of cooperation as India strengthens its engagement with Central Asia.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.