PM Modi Reaches Kyrgyz Republic to take part in 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in Bishkek for the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit marks a significant milestone in India's deepening engagement with Central Asia and the broader Eurasian geopolitical landscape. The SCO, founded in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, has evolved from a border demarcation mechanism into a comprehensive regional organisation addressing security, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. India became a full member in June 2017 alongside Pakistan, transforming the SCO into a platform that now represents over 40% of the world's population and nearly 30% of global GDP. The historical context of India's SCO membership traces back to its observer status since 2005 and the strategic imperative to engage with Central Asia — a region with which India shares civilisational links dating back to the ancient Silk Road. The 'Connect Central Asia' policy articulated in 2012 laid the groundwork for enhanced political, economic, and cultural ties. The 26th Summit, held on September 1, 2024, assumes particular importance as it occurs amid evolving global power dynamics, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, China's expanding influence through the Belt and Road Initiative, and the Taliban's consolidation in Afghanistan — all of which directly impact India's security calculus. Key stakeholders at the Summit include the founding members China and Russia, the Central Asian republics, and newer entrants like Iran (which joined in 2023). For India, bilateral meetings on the sidelines with leaders of these nations are crucial. Engagement with Russia remains vital for defence cooperation and energy security, while dialogue with Central Asian leaders advances the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and Chabahar Port connectivity projects. The SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), headquartered in Tashkent, provides a critical framework for intelligence sharing on terrorism, separatism, and extremism — threats that resonate deeply with India's national security priorities under Article 355 of the Constitution, which mandates the Union to protect states from external aggression and internal disturbance. Economically, the SCO offers a platform to diversify India's trade beyond traditional partners. Despite geographical proximity, India's trade with Central Asia remains modest (around $2 billion annually), hindered by lack of direct land access due to Pakistan's transit restrictions. The Summit's focus on digital economy, green energy, and supply chain resilience aligns with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. Politically, India's active participation reinforces its credentials as a 'Voice of the Global South' and a net security provider, balancing its Quad commitments in the Indo-Pacific with continental Eurasian diplomacy. Looking ahead, the Summit outcomes will likely shape India's approach to the SCO's expanding agenda, including potential membership for Belarus and dialogue partners like Saudi Arabia and Egypt. The adoption of joint statements on counter-terrorism, climate action, and cultural cooperation will provide concrete metrics for assessing India's influence within the organisation. For aspirants, this event exemplifies the intersection of foreign policy (Article 51 of the Constitution — promotion of international peace and security), strategic autonomy, and multi-alignment — core themes in India's contemporary diplomacy.