Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part in the 26th summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) held in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, on August 31 and September 1, 2026. The meeting brought together the heads of state from member nations to discuss regional peace, security and economic growth. This summit was particularly significant as it marked the completion of 25 years since the SCO was founded.
What was discussed and agreed
During his address, the Prime Minister emphasised three main areas for future cooperation: security, connectivity and opportunity. He stressed that armed conflict cannot solve international disputes and that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path forward. He warned that terrorism posed a serious threat to all nations and called for unified action to eliminate terror networks, without any country applying different standards to different groups.
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s support for Afghanistan’s peace and development through aid programmes. On connectivity, he backed infrastructure projects that boost trade and create economic opportunities, but insisted such initiatives must respect the sovereignty and borders of all nations.
The summit adopted the Bishkek Declaration along with four memorandums of understanding and more than twenty decisions covering areas such as climate action, nuclear safety, energy efficiency and drug trafficking prevention. India championed several proposals that made it into the final declaration, including recognising English as an official language of the SCO, establishing a Civilisation Dialogue Forum, and creating forums for young scientists and writers within the organisation.
The Prime Minister announced that India will host the inaugural SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum later in the year, aimed at promoting cultural and civilisational exchanges among member states.
What this means for you
As a member of the SCO, India is shaping regional policies on security threats, trade routes and development assistance across Central and South Asia. The initiatives approved at this summit, particularly those focused on youth engagement and scientific collaboration, could create opportunities for Indian students, researchers and entrepreneurs to connect with their counterparts in SCO nations. The emphasis on dialogue over conflict also reflects India’s diplomatic approach to regional tensions.