The SCO Bishkek Declaration strengthened India’s cooperation against terrorism, narco-terrorism and organised crime. The 26th SCO Summit took place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, from August 31 to September 1, 2026. Leaders adopted the declaration during the SCO’s 25th anniversary year.
India used the summit to highlight security, connectivity and development across the wider Eurasian region. The declaration strongly condemned terrorism in all forms and rejected double standards against terrorism. It also called for stronger international efforts against cross-border terrorism and extremist networks. Meanwhile, SCO members approved regulations for a Universal Centre addressing security challenges and threats. The centre will improve coordination and information sharing among member states. The summit also strengthened cooperation against drug trafficking and narco-terrorism across SCO member states. Members approved regulations for the executive committee of the SCO Anti-Narcotics Centre. They also adopted programmes addressing synthetic drugs, precursor chemicals and drug addiction until 2030.
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India’s Security Priorities Gain Momentum at SCO Summit
These initiatives will support information sharing and closer coordination between enforcement agencies. Consequently, India gains additional channels to address cross-border narcotics threats with regional partners. Furthermore, SCO members amended the organisation’s crime cooperation framework to strengthen joint action. The changes will support closer coordination against organised and cross-border crime. Members also expanded cooperation across climate change, energy conservation and energy-system development. These initiatives encourage technology exchanges, practical cooperation and stronger regional energy resilience.
The summit also advanced cooperation in artificial intelligence, information exchange, science and innovation. India supported initiatives involving the SCO Young Scientists Forum and the SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum. The grouping also agreed to include English as an official and working language. This decision can create greater opportunities for India within the organisation’s institutional processes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged SCO members to reject double standards against terrorism. He also called for dismantling terrorist financing, recruitment, radicalisation and safe havens. At the same time, Modi promoted dialogue, diplomacy, connectivity, technology and youth cooperation. Overall, the Bishkek outcomes strengthen India’s regional engagement across security, development and connectivity priorities.
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