Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, today. The Summit is being held to mark the 25th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The SCO has ten member countries, including China and Russia. India has been a full member of the SCO since 2017.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit, will underline India’s priorities in the areas of security, connectivity and opportunity. India has consistently opposed double standards in the fight against terrorism, separatism and extremism. India believes that greater connectivity among member countries is essential for peace and prosperity in the region. At the same time, connectivity projects must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.

India has also been emphasising the need to create new opportunities for the youth of member countries and promote the startup ecosystem. India believes that the energy, innovation and entrepreneurship of young people can give a fresh impetus to regional development and cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the first day of his two-day visit to Kyrgyzstan yesterday, held bilateral meetings with the leaders of Russia, Iran, the Kyrgyz Republic and Armenia on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek. The meetings covered various aspects of bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest.

The Prime Minister also attended the official opening ceremony of the sixth World Nomad Games in Bishkek yesterday evening, along with leaders of other SCO member countries. The biennial sporting event celebrates the rich sporting traditions, culture and heritage of nomadic civilisations.