India to host inaugural SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India will host the inaugural SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum by the end of 2026. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Singh invited all member nations to participate in the forum to strengthen cultural ties and mutual understanding.

During his address, Singh emphasized the importance of regional connectivity for shared prosperity, citing the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chabahar Port as significant contributors to linking Central Asia with broader markets. He noted, “connectivity should be based on consultation and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each country involved with it.”

Additionally, Singh welcomed the decision to establish the Universal Centre in Tashkent and the Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe as permanent SCO bodies. He highlighted India's commitment to regional security and development, noting that technological innovation remains central to creating new economic opportunities across the SCO region.