Nuclear partnership: India needs uranium and Uzbekistan has plenty

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has confirmed a strategic agreement with Uzbekistan during his visit to Tashkent, marking a significant step forward in India's nuclear energy ambitions. The deal involves a long-term arrangement for the supply of uranium, a critical component for India’s expanding nuclear power sector. This agreement was announced following Modi’s meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev in Tashkent on August 29, 2026. The agreement underscores the growing importance of uranium supply chains for India, which has been striving to increase its production of nuclear energy. Uzbekistan, one of the world's major producers of uranium, is well-positioned to support India’s efforts. Modi highlighted the agreement as one of the key outcomes of their discussions, emphasizing its potential role in securing fuel for Indian nuclear power plants and advancing the country’s ambitious nuclear energy plans. Beyond nuclear energy, the talks between the two nations covered a range of topics. Modi emphasized the need for clear implementation plans for three city-level partnership agreements being prepared between India and Uzbekistan. He urged that these partnerships should not remain confined to paper but should translate into tangible projects. During the meetings, Modi referenced India’s GIFT City project in Gujarat as an example of urban development initiatives that could inspire similar efforts in Uzbekistan. He also invited a delegation from Uzbekistan to visit GIFT City to observe its planning, technology, and execution. Trade relations between India and Uzbekistan have grown significantly over recent years. Last year, bilateral trade crossed the $1 billion mark for the first time, according to Mirziyoev. The number of joint ventures between the two countries has increased sevenfold compared to several years ago. Their cooperation spans multiple sectors including trade, investment, education, pharmaceuticals, information technology, and culture. With the new uranium agreement, nuclear energy joins the list of key areas of collaboration. India and Uzbekistan have also expanded their transportation links. Currently, there are 14 direct flights per week between the two countries, facilitating travel and business interactions. Cultural ties have strengthened as well, with institutions such as the Center for Indian Culture Lal Bahadur Shastri and the Center for Indian Studies Mahatma Gandhi playing a crucial role in fostering connections between citizens of both nations. Yoga has gained popularity in Uzbekistan, with the country hosting a yoga festival in June 2026, drawing participants from a broader region. One of the most notable developments for travelers is Uzbekistan’s plan to allow Indian citizens visa-free entry for stays up to 30 days. According to Mirziyoev, this move aims to boost tourism, business travel, and broader exchanges between the populations of the two countries. The agreements signed during Modi’s visit reflect a deepening of economic and political ties beyond symbolic diplomatic gestures. Increased air connectivity, surpassing $1 billion in trade, joint investments, and easier travel all indicate stronger bonds between India and Uzbekistan. Modi’s visit to Tashkent concluded on August 30, after which he will proceed to Bishkek to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit.