PM Modi meets Presidents of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Belarus on sidelines of SCO Summit

Tianjin, Aug 2025 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a series of bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, reaffirming India’s commitment to regional cooperation, economic growth, and cultural exchange.

In his meeting with Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, PM Modi emphasized the expanding collaboration between the two nations across critical areas such as energy, security, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. “Productive exchange of views with President Tokayev of Kazakhstan. Our nations are working closely in many key sectors,” PM Modi wrote on X.

PM Modi also interacted with Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon, highlighting the strengthening of trade and cultural linkages between India and Tajikistan. Calling the engagement a pleasure, PM Modi expressed optimism about the continued growth of these ties.

Another significant engagement was with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. The two leaders expressed confidence in the emerging opportunities that could benefit both nations. “We both are very optimistic about the beneficial opportunities ahead as far as our nations are concerned,” PM Modi stated.

Earlier, PM Modi met Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu and reiterated that India’s developmental cooperation with the island nation continues to yield significant benefits for both countries. Similarly, his meeting with Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli underscored the “deep-rooted and very special” relationship between India and Nepal, built on cultural affinity and shared history.

The series of engagements underscored India’s proactive diplomacy within the SCO framework, highlighting its role as a bridge between South Asia, Central Asia, and beyond.

On Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, formally welcomed PM Modi at the SCO official reception for Heads of State and Heads of Government.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, established on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, has emerged as a key regional grouping addressing security, economic, and cultural cooperation. Its member states include China, Russia, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Belarus. The SCO also has two observer states — Afghanistan and Mongolia — and 14 dialogue partners, including Turkey, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates.

PM Modi’s meetings in Tianjin showcased India’s growing diplomatic outreach and focus on strengthening partnerships that foster regional stability, economic opportunities, and cultural linkages across the SCO region.