Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Arrives in Bishkek for SCO Defence Ministers Meeting

Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Monday landed in Kyrgyzstan's capital of Bishkek to participate in Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) defence ministers' meeting on Tuesday, which is likely to discuss the prevailing situation in West Asia. The defence ministers of various member countries will deliberate upon a number of issues concerning defence and security of the region, international peace, counter-terrorism and defence cooperation among SCO member states. This year's SCO meeting is taking place against the backdrop of West Asia conflict. SCO, one of the largest political & economic organisations of the region, may discuss measures to reduce the impact of the conflict, according to the defence ministry. Before his departure, Rajnath posted on X on Monday, "Leaving for Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan... Shall highlight India's commitment towards global peace, amidst the security challenges prevailing in the world, apart from conveying India's consistent stance on Zero Tolerance for Terrorism and Extremism." On his arrival in Bishkek, Rajnath was accorded a traditional welcome and offered Borsok, a popular Kyrgyz delicacy, as part of the ceremonial reception. The defence minister is likely to hold bilateral talks with his counterparts from some participating countries on the sidelines of the meeting. SCO comprises India, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran and Belarus. India became a full member in 2017 and assumed the organisation's rotating chairmanship in 2023. SCO, established in 2001 by China, Russia and several Central Asian nations, has evolved into a significant regional bloc over past two decades. The grouping's influence was further bolstered in 2023 with inclusion of Iran as a full member during the Indian presidency.