PM To Visit Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan As India Eyes Bigger Role In Central Asia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan later this month at a time when Central Asia has emerged as one of the world's most strategically contested regions. China has spent years expanding its footprint through the Belt and Road Initiative, while Russia continues to view the region as part of its traditional sphere of influence. India, too, is seeking a larger role, making the visit strategically significant.The visit has two distinct legs. The Kyrgyzstan stop will revolve around the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, with bilateral meetings expected on the sidelines. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, will host a full-fledged bilateral visit focused on trade, defence cooperation, connectivity and investment.The timing reflects multiple strategic realities.