Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit Convenes in Kyrgyzstan's Capital, Bishkek
Leaders of China, Russia, India, and Iran are gathering for the summit in Bishkek on the bloc's 25th anniversary.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are gathering in Kyrgyzstan's capital, Bishkek, for the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit on the occasion of the bloc's 25th anniversary.
Participants of the Bishkek Summit
In addition to the leaders of China, Russia, and India, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is also participating in the two-day summit, which began on Monday.
The meeting also includes the leaders of Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, and Kazakhstan, as well as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and the Secretary-General of ASEAN.
Global Developments and Summit Motto
This year's summit is taking place in the shadow of global conflicts, such as the spillover effects of the US-Israel war on Iran and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
The gathering in Bishkek is being held under the motto Together for Sustainable Peace, Development, and Prosperity.
Critical Agenda Items
On the leaders' agenda are regional security, the economic and social situation in Afghanistan, and disruptions in maritime routes.
Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and issues of economic connectivity are also among the important topics addressed at the meeting.
Financial Integration and Discussions
Potential progress on financial integration steps, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Development Bank and Investment Fund, is being evaluated.
Bilateral talks between Modi and Putin, as well as negotiations regarding trade routes such as the Northern Sea Route, are also expected within the scope of the summit.