First India-Central Asia Summit

  • 29 Jan 2022

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi hosted the first India-Central Asia Summit in virtual format on 27 January 2022, which was attended by Presidents of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Republic of Uzbekistan.

  • This first India-Central Asia coincided with the 30th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Central Asian countries.

(Image Source: India Today)

Highlights

  • The Leaders agreed to institutionalize the Summit mechanism by deciding to hold it every 2 years.
  • They agreed on regular meetings of Foreign Ministers, Trade Ministers, Culture Ministers and Secretaries of the Security Council to prepare the groundwork for the Summit meetings.
  • An India-Central Asia Secretariat in New Delhi would be set up to support the new mechanism.
  • The Leaders discussed far-reaching proposals to further cooperation in areas of trade and connectivity, development cooperation, defence and security and, in particular, on cultural and people to people contacts. These included:
    • A Round-Table on Energy and Connectivity;
    • Joint Working Groups at senior official level on Afghanistan and use of Chabahar Port;
    • Showcasing of Buddhist exhibitions in Central Asian countries ;
    • Commissioning of an India-Central Asia dictionary of common words,
    • Joint counter-terrorism exercises,
    • Visit of 100 member youth delegation annually from Central Asian countries to India; and
    • Special courses for Central Asian diplomats.
  • Prime Minister Modi also discussed the evolving situation in Afghanistan with the Central Asian leaders. The leaders reiterated their strong support for a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan with a truly representative and inclusive government. Prime Minister conveyed India’s continued commitment to provide humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people.
  • A comprehensive Joint Declaration was adopted by the leaders that enumerates their common vision for an enduring and comprehensive India-Central Asia partnership.