Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Sunday to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The prime minister is also scheduled to engage in a series of bilateral meetings with leaders from member states on the sidelines of the summit.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Prime Minister Modi was formally welcomed at the airport by Kasymaliev Adylbek Aleshovich, the chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan. The arrival was marked by a traditional Kyrgyz dance performance.
The 26th SCO Summit is scheduled to take place from August 31 to September 1. Prime Minister Modi is attending at the invitation of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov. The summit this year marks a significant milestone for the 10-member organisation, as it commemorates 25 years since its founding in 2001. The founding members included China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan attained full membership in 2017, followed by Iran in 2023, and Belarus in 2024.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is expected to hold bilateral discussions with several SCO leaders. Key meetings anticipated include those with Kyrgyz President Zhaparov and Russian President Vladimir Putin. These interactions are aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and addressing shared challenges.
In a departure statement made on Saturday, Prime Minister Modi conveyed his anticipation for the summit, stating his intent to advance India’s vision for the region. This vision is underpinned by principles of “security, connectivity and opportunity.” He expressed a commitment to collaborating with fellow SCO members towards establishing a region free from the influence of terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
Prime Minister Modi also indicated his eagerness to meet President Zhaparov and other SCO leaders to foster closer ties and discuss collaborative initiatives. Furthermore, he is slated to attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, an event that showcases the cultural heritage of the region.
The Prime Minister articulated that this visit is expected to significantly bolster India’s strategic partnerships within Central Asia. It is also seen as an opportunity to deepen civilisational connections with the region and to collectively pursue shared goals of peace, stability, and prosperity across the SCO member states.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
