OREANDA-NEWS. August 06, 2013. On the eve of the 22st Anniversary of the State Independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India to the Republic of Uzbekistan Anumula Gitesh Sarma shared his opinions with UzA reporter Iroda Umarova, about the results of wide-scale reforms undertaken in Uzbekistan and bilateral relations established between our countries.

Mr. Ambassador, our interview is on the threshold of Independence Day. In this regard, how do you evaluate the results of reforms implemented within the years of independence in various areas, particularly in the sphere of economy?

First of all, I would like to convey my greetings to the people and Government of Uzbekistan on the occasion of Independence Day. Uzbekistan’s progress in the last two decades has been remarkable. Even at the time of a global economic slowdown, GDP has registered more than 8% growth as a result of wise policies. Taking into account the difficult international economic environment, this is not a small achievement. Reforms take time to realize and what is visible is that Uzbekistan is on the path of steady progress. Uzbekistan’s main focus is on diversification of its economy, developing manufacturing capability and improving the infrastructure and things are moving in right direction.

What can you say about economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and India, for instance, joint projects in this direction? What is your opinion regarding special economic zones and conditions provided for foreign investments to develop the business?

India and Uzbekistan do realize that the level of bilateral economic cooperation is much below potential. The total volume of our bilateral trade in 2012 was about 201 million U.S. dollars and but this amount does not reflect the real potential. Efforts fr om both sides are on to enhance cooperation in trade and economy. Absence of efficient transit corridors is a major hurdle and in the short run we need to think about innovative ways to address this problem. There is a scope of joint projects in various sectors like IT, mining etc. The creation of three special economic zones is an important step and of interest to potential foreign investors. Last year an Indian business delegation visited the Navoi Free Economic Zone. Tourism, pharmaceuticals are also promising areas for cooperation. The India-CIS Chamber of Commerce is considering organizing a trade exhibition in Tashkent in September 2013.

Your ideas regarding today’s status of cooperation between Uzbekistan and India in the spheres of culture, education and information technologies and its perspectives.

India and Uzbekistan elevated their relationship to strategic partnership during the landmark visit of H.E. President Islam Karimov to India in May 2011. In May 2013, India’s Vice President visited Uzbekistan and this visit gave a new thrust to our relations. There is close understanding at the highest levels between leaders of both the countries. Our relationship is unique and this is considerable warmth at the people-to-people level. Different projects in the area of Information Technology are under consideration and I am sure that both of our countries will benefit from such cooperation. The most important requirement for the growth of the IT sector is availability of suitable manpower and Uzbekistan has highly educated and talented human resources. Several Indian IT companies have been looking at opportunities for business in Uzbekistan.

What can you say about importance and prestige of “Shark Taronalari” International Music Festival being held in Samarkand? We would like to know about Indian artists who will participate in this year’s festival.

Sharq Taronalari International Music Festival has become a major international event. Organizers of this Festival and the Government of Uzbekistan deserve appreciation for bringing different shades of music together. This festival is therefore known for its high standard and unique nature. A light classical music group from India led by Ms. Rashmi Aggarwal will be participating in this event this year. I would also like to mention that music has been another area wh ere India and Uzbekistan’s historical bonds are deep rooted and have influenced each other. I convey my best wishes for the success of this year’s music festival.