India Highlights Security, Connectivity and Opportunity at 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 26th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation , held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, from 31 August to 1 September 2026 . The summit was particularly significant because 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of the SCO . Leaders reviewed the organisation's progress and discussed its future role in promoting peace, security, stability and prosperity across the region. India’s Three-Pillar Approach India emphasised three major pillars for future SCO cooperation: Security India stressed the importance of regional security and cooperation against common threats. Connectivity Better connectivity among SCO countries can expand trade, economic cooperation and people-to-people links. Opportunity India called for converting the region's shared geography into greater economic and developmental opportunities. The Prime Minister said the organisation should now work towards concrete outcomes under these three pillars. Roadmap for the Next 25 Years With the SCO completing 25 years, India called on member countries to prepare a roadmap for the organisation's next 25 years . The focus is expected to remain on stronger regional cooperation while addressing security and development challenges. India has been a full member of the SCO since 2017 .  Bishkek Declaration Adopted One of the major outcomes of the summit was the adoption of the Bishkek Declaration . In addition, SCO members adopted: Four Memoranda of Understanding More than 20 decisions and statements Measures relating to climate issues Nuclear safety Energy conservation Combating drug addiction Indian Initiatives Included Several initiatives led or supported by India were incorporated into the Bishkek Declaration. These included: English as an official language in the SCO Charter SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum Young Scientist Forum Young Authors' Conclave India also expressed its readiness to host the first SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum later in 2026 , aimed at strengthening civilisational exchanges among member countries.  Significance for India The SCO provides India with an important platform for engagement with countries across Central Asia and the wider Eurasian region . India's participation allows it to promote cooperation in security, connectivity, economic development, cultural exchanges and other areas of regional importance. The Bishkek summit reaffirmed India's commitment to working with SCO members for shared progress and prosperity .