Bishkek [Kyrgyzstan], April 27 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reached Bishkek on Monday to take part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting, a key multilateral event focused on regional security and defence cooperation.
Singh received a ceremonial welcome on arrival and was offered borsok, a traditional Kyrgyz snack, as part of the reception.
He is scheduled to join talks with defence ministers from SCO member states on Tuesday to discuss measures to bolster defence cooperation, enhance regional stability, and tackle shared security challenges. Ahead of his departure, Singh posted on X that he was “looking forward to attend the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting scheduled to be held tomorrow.”
Singh said he would emphasize India’s commitment to global peace amid current security challenges and reiterate India’s firm stance of zero tolerance toward terrorism and extremism. He also noted plans for bilateral meetings with SCO counterparts and interactions with the Indian community in Bishkek.
Formed in 2001 by China, Russia and several Central Asian countries, the SCO has grown into a prominent regional bloc. Its role expanded further in 2023 when Iran became a full member during India’s presidency, reinforcing the grouping’s importance for security and economic cooperation across Eurasia.
The meeting will serve as a platform to strengthen military-to-military ties, with expected discussions on comprehensive counter-terrorism strategies, joint exercises, and enhanced intelligence sharing among members.
India and Kyrgyzstan maintain steady defence ties, including regular joint training and officer exchanges. Earlier this month in New Delhi, the fourth meeting of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Working Group on defence cooperation convened to explore expanded technical exchanges and potential industrial partnerships for fiscal 2026-2027. (ANI)
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