India will host the first SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum in New Delhi from 20th to 22nd of this month. Briefing the media in New Delhi today, Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that the three-day forum aims to promote dialogue and cooperation through the shared civilizational heritage of SCO member countries and explore new avenues for cultural engagement.

He said that the event is not merely an international gathering but an opportunity to promote dialogue among different cultures, knowledge systems and traditions.

The Minister said that the forum will focus on four key areas that are Cultural Expression, Art and Architecture, Language and Literature and Religious and Philosophy tradition. Mr Shekhawat said that 15 countries, including China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Belarus, Nepal, Armenia, Saudi Arabia, Cambodia and Tajikistan have confirmed their participation in the forum.

Mr Shekhawat said that the forum will not be limited to academic discussions, but will also feature exhibitions and cultural performances, showcasing the shared heritage and artistic traditions of participating countries. He expressed confidence that the forum will provide an important platform for strengthening cultural exchange and fostering greater understanding among participating nations.