New Delhi, June 6 -- Addressing the India-Central Asia Business Council in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized the need to strengthen economic ties between India and the Central Asian nations. He welcomed the high-level participation from both regions and thanked FICCI for organizing the event. Noting the growing mutual interest among businesses, he pointed out that trade between India and Central Asia has risen significantly over the last decade, from under USD 500 million in 2014 to nearly USD 2 billion today. However, he stressed that this figure remains below its true potential, particularly in light of global economic uncertainties.

Dr. Jaishankar outlined three primary objectives: to deepen cooperation...