Bishkek, Aug 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at his memorial in Bishkek and interacted with members of the Indian community gathered to welcome him during his two-day visit to Kyrgyzstan.
Modi offered floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and recalled the enduring relevance of the freedom fighter's philosophy. The statue was unveiled by Modi himself during his visit to Kyrgyzstan in 2015, underscoring the long-standing cultural ties between India and the Central Asian nation.
Taking to X, the Prime Minister said, “In Bishkek this morning, paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue in the city. Gandhi Ji’s thoughts will always have an unparalleled impact on our minds.”
The visit to the memorial was also marked by an interaction with members of the Indian community who had gathered at the site. Modi acknowledged their presence and spoke briefly with members of the diaspora, highlighting the important role played by Indians living abroad in strengthening people-to-people connections between India and other countries.
Earlier, Modi interacted with representatives of different communities in Bishkek as part of his engagements during the visit. The Prime Minister had received a warm welcome from members of the Indian community after arriving in the Kyrgyz capital on Sunday.
The gathering witnessed enthusiastic chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram” as members of the diaspora welcomed the Prime Minister. Modi later described the reception as a special moment connecting India with Bishkek.
“From Bharat to Bishkek, a very special welcome by the Indian community earlier this evening,” he posted on X.
The welcome also featured cultural performances showcasing the traditions of Kyrgyzstan. Modi watched the performances and appreciated the artists for presenting the country's rich cultural heritage. Yoga enthusiasts also performed demonstrations, adding an Indian cultural dimension to the reception.
Modi arrived in Bishkek on Sunday after concluding his visit to Uzbekistan. He was received at Manas International Airport by Kyrgyzstan's Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Adylbek Kasymaliev.
During his two-day stay, the Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit and attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games. He is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov and other leaders attending the summit.
Ahead of his departure for the two-nation tour of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, Modi said India's engagement with the SCO was guided by the principles of Security, Connectivity and Opportunity.
He said India, an active and constructive member of the SCO since 2017, would continue working with other member countries to promote a region free from terrorism, separatism and extremism.
“I look forward to advancing India's vision for the region, anchored in Security, Connectivity and Opportunity,” Modi said, while emphasising the need for greater cooperation to address challenges threatening regional peace and stability.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the significance of the World Nomad Games, describing them as a celebration of Central Asia's rich living heritage. His participation reflects India's interest in strengthening cultural and civilisational connections with the region alongside strategic and economic cooperation.
Modi said he was confident that the visit would strengthen India's strategic partnerships in Central Asia and deepen the civilisational bonds shared by India and the region.
He also stressed that India's engagement with Central Asian countries was aimed at advancing a shared pursuit of peace, stability and prosperity.
With the SCO Summit bringing together leaders from across the region, Modi's Kyrgyzstan visit is expected to provide an opportunity for India to reinforce its diplomatic outreach in Central Asia while strengthening bilateral ties with Kyrgyzstan and other regional partners.
