India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the “Oliy Darajali Do’stlik” Order by Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. This is Uzbekistan’s highest honour given to foreign leaders. The award recognises Modi’s role in strengthening ties between the two nations.
What the award means
The “Oliy Darajali Do’stlik” Order, which translates to the Order of Highest Friendship, was conferred on Modi in recognition of his contributions to deepening the relationship between India and Uzbekistan. According to Modi’s statement upon receiving the honour, he dedicated the award to India’s 1.4 billion citizens. He described the honour as a reflection of the long-standing friendship between the two countries and their shared cultural heritage. Modi also noted that the award brings with it added responsibility for India to work alongside Uzbekistan as partners within the Global South, with a focus on improving human welfare globally.
The conferment of this order highlights the broad-based nature of India-Uzbekistan relations, which extend beyond simple diplomatic ties. The two nations maintain what is formally described as a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This partnership is rooted in centuries of shared civilisational connections and cultural exchange between the peoples of both countries.
What this means for you
This recognition signals India’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Central Asian nations, particularly Uzbekistan, across various fields of mutual interest. The award underscores India’s positioning as an important partner for countries in the Global South, a grouping that increasingly influences global affairs and development agendas.