Bishkek, Sep 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined other world leaders for a group photograph at the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek on Monday as he participated in important deliberations of the regional grouping and held a series of bilateral engagements during his visit to Kyrgyzstan.
Prime Minister Modi received a warm welcome on arriving at the summit venue, where leaders of SCO member nations gathered for discussions on regional security, connectivity, economic cooperation and other issues of common concern.
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Zhaparov. The two leaders reviewed the progress made in India-Kyrgyzstan relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
The meeting was an important part of the Prime Minister’s engagements in Bishkek and focused on expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The discussions are expected to provide fresh momentum to bilateral ties and deepen India’s engagement with the Central Asian region.
PM Modi had earlier received an enthusiastic welcome from members of the Indian community after arriving in Bishkek on Sunday to attend the SCO Summit.
Sharing photographs and glimpses of the reception, the Prime Minister described it as a special welcome from the Indian community in the Kyrgyz capital.
“From Bharat to Bishkek, a very special welcome by the Indian community earlier this evening,” PM Modi said in a post on X.
Members of the Indian diaspora greeted the Prime Minister with chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram”, creating a vibrant atmosphere during the welcome programme.
The reception also highlighted the cultural links between India and Kyrgyzstan. PM Modi watched cultural performances presented by local artists and appreciated their efforts. A group of yoga enthusiasts also participated in the programme, underlining the growing popularity of the ancient Indian practice beyond the country’s borders.
On his arrival at Manas International Airport, PM Modi was received by Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic.
“Landed in Bishkek a short while ago. Grateful to Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, for the warm welcome,” the Prime Minister said after his arrival.
PM Modi said his visit would include participation in the SCO Summit as well as several meetings with foreign leaders. The bilateral engagements are aimed at strengthening India’s relations with partner countries and advancing cooperation on regional and global issues.
Before embarking on his two-nation visit to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, the Prime Minister had underlined India’s active role in the SCO since becoming a full member in 2017.
He said India remained an “active and constructive member” of the organisation and looked forward to advancing the country’s vision for the region based on “Security, Connectivity and Opportunity”.
PM Modi also stressed the need for SCO member states to work together towards building a region free from terrorism, separatism and extremism, while promoting stability, development and stronger people-to-people links.
India’s participation in the Bishkek summit reflects New Delhi’s continued focus on deepening engagement with Central Asia and strengthening cooperation through multilateral platforms. The summit and PM Modi’s accompanying bilateral meetings are expected to provide an opportunity to advance India’s strategic, economic and regional interests while reinforcing its commitment to a stable, secure and connected Eurasian region.
