Kathmandu— During a bilateral meeting on Monday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed India’s support for Uzbekistan’s chairship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) for the period from 2027 to 2029. The discussion also covered cooperation against terrorism and drug trafficking.

Support for NAM Chairmanship

Jaishankar expressed India’s support for Uzbekistan's chairship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) during a bilateral meeting with Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov. He noted that India, as the current BRICS chair, appreciates Uzbekistan's support and looks forward to reciprocating by backing their NAM bid.

Shared Perspectives on Security

The two ministers highlighted shared perspectives on security issues such as terrorism, extremism, and drug trafficking. Jaishankar praised Uzbekistan’s firm stance against terrorism, noting that both countries have shown zero tolerance towards cross-border terrorism and sanctuaries.

Strategic and Economic Ties

The visit also underscored the deepening strategic and economic ties between India and Uzbekistan. President Droupadi Murmu hosted Foreign Minister Saidov at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where they discussed trade, rare earth critical minerals, educational exchanges, and shared civilizational roots.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation across Central Asia, agreeing that discussions during the visit will strengthen bilateral relations.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.