Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | International Relations
Why in News?
Recent, PM visit to Tashkent, India and Uzbekistan elevated their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and agreed to a long-term uranium supply arrangement.
India–Uzbekistan Uranium Deal
- Existing Agreement – India previously entered into a contract with Uzbekistan in 2019 for the supply of uranium.
- The agreement covered the delivery of 1,100 metric tonnes of natural uranium concentrate (yellowcake).
- Deliveries under this contract were scheduled through 2026.
- By March 2025, India had received approximately 600 metric tonnes of uranium under this agreement.
- New arrangement – A long-term uranium supply arrangement was established for the provision of uranium from Uzbekistan to India for civilian nuclear power generation.
- This agreement forms part of broader civil nuclear cooperation between the two countries, conducted under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.
- A memorandum of understanding (MoU) on mining and geology was also signed to facilitate cooperation on critical minerals, including uranium.
- Other Uranium Agreements – India has recently established or advanced long-term uranium import agreements with the following countries:
- Canada
- Australia
- Uzbekistan
- Key characteristics of these agreements include:
- Each agreement involves civilian nuclear cooperation and is subject to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.
- They are designed to ensure a long-term and stable supply of uranium concentrate.
- These agreements form part of India’s broader strategy to:
- Support the expansion of nuclear energy capacity
- Strengthen strategic partnerships with key middle powers and resource-rich countries.
- Key Components of India–Uzbekistan CSP
- Trade target – To increase bilateral trade to USD 5 billion by 2030, compared to the current level of just over USD 1 billion.
- Defence Collaboration – Key initiatives include co-production, joint military exercises, and collaboration within the defence industry.
- Connectivity and Logistics – Efforts focus on enhancing regional transport corridors and minimizing barriers to the movement of goods.
- Digital Technology and Innovation – Areas of cooperation include digital technology, artificial intelligence, and peaceful applications of space exploration.
- Institutional Mechanisms – Ministerial-level coordination, including participation by foreign ministers, is established to regularly review progress.
India currently maintains Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships with several countries, including Russia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Reference
Indian Express | India – Uzbekistan CSP
