From marble inlay, silk to Mahabharata: What PM Modi gifted leaders at SCO summit
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented traditional handicrafts and cultural gifts to leaders from Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan during the SCO summit. The gifts included marble inlay work, Kangra tea, and musical instruments, aimed at strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties.
Why it matters
These diplomatic gestures highlight India's soft power strategy and its ongoing efforts to deepen economic and cultural integration with Central Asian nations.
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who participated in the 26th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, presented a range of traditional Indian handicrafts, textiles, tea, musical instruments and literary works to leaders and dignitaries from Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.The gifts showcased India's diverse cultural heritage while highlighting the country's longstanding cultural and diplomatic ties with Central Asia.Gifts for Uzbekistan's presidentModi gifted president of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev a marble inlay decorative plate, featuring floral and foliate motifs in blue, green and red set into polished white marble. The craft is particularly associated with Agra in Uttar Pradesh and reflects generations of Indian artisan skill.The Prime Minister also presented Mirziyoyev with two boxes of premium Kangra tea, Kangra First Flush Black Tea and Kangra Green Tea, housed in a carved wooden box.
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