The SCO Summit 2026 is being held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, from 31 August to 1 September 2026, marking the 25th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The summit brings together leaders of its 10 member states, including India, China, Russia and Iran.
Key Facts
- Founded: 2001 in Shanghai, China
- Founding members: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan
- India & Pakistan: Joined in 2017
- Iran: Became a full member in 2023
- Belarus: Joined in 2024
- Current members: 10 countries
- 2026 Summit venue: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
- Dates: 31 August–1 September 2026
- 2026 theme: “25 Years of the SCO: Together Towards Sustainable Peace, Development, and Prosperity”
Main Agenda
The summit focuses on regional security, counter-terrorism, connectivity, trade, energy cooperation, cybercrime, organised crime and cultural exchanges. Connectivity projects such as the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway are also significant.
Significance for India
The SCO provides India with an important platform to engage simultaneously with China, Russia and Central Asian countries. India also highlights the need for a terrorism-free region and seeks stronger connectivity and economic cooperation through initiatives such as Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
