Highlighting the profound diplomatic ties between the two nations, Ambassador Rustambayev underscored the pivotal role played by regular and trusting dialogues between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This bilateral dialogue has laid a robust foundation across various sectors including politics, economics, health, pharma, IT, education, energy, culture, and tourism.
During his visit to Hyderabad, Ambassador Rustambayev engaged with key stakeholders, including Hetero Pharma, AIG Hospitals, Bharath Biotech, Health on Us, NEO Institute, Smart Key Solutions, and the Film Association, among others. Recognizing Hyderabad as a blend of ancient charm and modern dynamism, the Ambassador emphasized its significance as a thriving economic hub.
In a bid to enhance economic ties, Ambassador Rustambayev stressed the importance of connectivity between India and Uzbekistan. The recent launch of direct Mumbai-Tashkent flights by Uzbekistan Airways on April 2, 2024, further solidifies this connectivity, with plans underway to extend flight services to Hyderabad. Both Indigo Airlines and Uzbekistan Airways already operate direct flights between New Delhi and Tashkent, facilitating seamless travel for tourists, students, patients, and business delegates.
Building upon historical ties, Ambassador Rustambayev highlighted the significance of the Spice Route, which historically connected India with Central Asia through Uzbekistan. To foster closer relations, Uzbekistan offers Indians easy e-visas, with plans for a reciprocal free visa regime in the pipeline.
The Ambassador also graced the graduation ceremony at AIG Hospitals, where he conferred degrees upon NEO Indian students from Ukraine who graduated from Bukhara State Medical Institute(BSMI) with Zaporizhia State Medical Pharmaceutical University (ZSMPU) Commending their achievements of 73% success rate in FMGE on their first try of intensive batch, he presented gold, silver, and bronze medals to the top-performing students, echoing Uzbekistan's commitment to excellence in education and healthcare.
Furthermore, Ambassador Rustambayev reiterated Uzbekistan's dedication to strengthening Southeast Asian relationships, with a particular focus on India. This commitment is evidenced by the establishment of 420 enterprises in Uzbekistan with Indian capital, including the prestigious Tashkent IT Park.
As a testament to the growing bilateral cooperation, discussions were held regarding the proposal to designate Hyderabad and Bukhara as sister cities, further fostering cultural and economic exchanges between the two regions.
Ambassador Rustambayev's visit to Hyderabad not only reinforces the enduring friendship between Uzbekistan and India but also heralds a new era of collaboration and mutual prosperity.