Rajnath Singh to Lead Indian Delegation at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Defence Ministers’ Meet in Bishkek

India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will lead a high-level delegation to the Defence Ministers’ Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), scheduled to be held in Bishkek on April 28, 2026.

The meeting will bring together defence leaders from SCO member nations to deliberate on key issues concerning regional and global security, including international peace, counter-terrorism efforts, and defence cooperation.

Focus on Security and Geopolitical Challenges

This year’s discussions are set against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in West Asia. Member states are expected to explore measures to mitigate the impact of regional conflicts and strengthen collective security mechanisms.

India’s Stand on Terrorism and Peace

During the meeting, Singh is expected to reiterate India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and extremism, while emphasising the country’s commitment to global peace and stability amid evolving security challenges.

Bilateral Engagements on Sidelines

On the sidelines of the SCO meet, the Defence Minister is likely to hold bilateral discussions with his counterparts from participating countries to enhance defence cooperation and strategic partnerships.

About SCO

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, established on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, is one of the largest regional intergovernmental organisations. Its members include India, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Belarus.

India became a full member of the SCO in 2017 and assumed the organisation’s rotating chairmanship in 2023, reinforcing its role in regional diplomacy and security cooperation.