What are the priorities of Kyrgyzstan's chairmanship this year?
- The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is celebrating its 25th anniversary, having evolved from an association of six countries into the largest transregional structure. Each year, its influence on the international stage grows, shaping a system of interstate partnership.
The organization aims for further development, as current global challenges require adaptation to modern conditions. The main task defined by the heads of state is the comprehensive modernization of the SCO's operations, including improving its structure and updating its legal framework.
In 2025, the chairmanship will pass to Kyrgyzstan with the theme "25 Years of SCO: Together for a Sustainable World, Development, and Prosperity," emphasizing continuity and a future-oriented approach.
The main priorities of Kyrgyzstan's chairmanship for the period of 2025-2026 include:
Long-term stability. Without peace, economic development and humanitarian cooperation are impossible. SCO countries will continue to combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism, as well as new threats such as cybercrime and drug trafficking.
Economic cooperation. In the near future, discussions are planned on creating a financial mechanism for the SCO, which could be an important step for financing programs in key sectors, including small and medium-sized enterprises.
Conditions for international transport. The establishment of new transport routes and the effective use of the potential of member states is anticipated.
Digitalization. Digital technologies should unite rather than divide, creating a common space of trust among SCO countries.
Kyrgyzstan intends to propose a progressive approach, making digital transformation a primary focus of its work. Bishkek has initiated the holding of a Youth Digital Forum of the SCO, which will serve as a platform for exchanging ideas and joint projects among young professionals.
Digitalization is also related to cyber threats. Therefore, the exchange of experience on cybersecurity and digital infrastructure issues is becoming particularly relevant.
Cultural cooperation. The SCO emphasizes trade-economic and cultural interaction. Cholpon-Ata has become the cultural capital of the SCO and will host the anniversary Issyk-Kul Intellectual Forum, established at the initiative of Chingiz Aitmatov.
Environmental sustainability. Climate change poses a serious challenge for the SCO, which encompasses diverse ecosystems. This affects energy, agriculture, and water resources.
Kyrgyzstan proposes to create an Emergency Assistance Fund for effective responses to climate change.
What goals does the organization have for 2026, and what key events are planned?
In accordance with the Development Strategy until 2035, SCO member states intend to strengthen trust and cooperation, as well as combat traditional and new security threats, improving the organization and its international authority.
Kyrgyzstan's chairmanship combines the achievements of the Tianjin summit and new initiatives. Bishkek's priorities include the establishment of specialized bodies, such as a Universal Center for Countering Security Threats in Tashkent and an Anti-Drug Center in Dushanbe. A program to combat extremist ideology for 2026-2030 is also planned.
A plan of activities for 2026 has been agreed upon, including meetings on policy, security, economy, and humanitarian cooperation, as well as meetings of the SCO Youth Council.
A key event will be the meeting of the Council of Heads of Government, chaired this year by Tajikistan, as well as meetings of ministers on foreign economic issues and agriculture.
On the international stage, the SCO will continue to develop ties with partners and organize joint events with the UN, ESCAP, and other regional organizations.
How do you see the prospects for deepening foreign policy coordination among SCO member states in the context of global instability?
- Significant changes are occurring in the world in politics and economics, forming a multipolar order. At the same time, conflicts and geopolitical tensions are intensifying, creating risks for stability in the SCO region.
The SCO has become an important player in international relations, and member states consider it necessary to enhance its role in ensuring peace and security, creating a new just order.
The organization advocates for the right of peoples to independently choose their paths of development, based on the principles of respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.
We support the peaceful resolution of disputes and oppose confrontation, emphasizing dialogue and cooperation.
Member states, relying on common interests, are strengthening cooperation in various fields, contributing to peace and development at the global level.
The main tool of the SCO for responding to threats to peace is political statements. In 2025-2026, 9 such statements initiated by the Secretariat were adopted.
We continue to improve mechanisms for countering security threats, including combating terrorism and other forms of crime.
We are confident that strengthening the work of the SCO will contribute to enhancing foreign policy coordination and regional security.
