New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will represent India at the 25th meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), scheduled to take place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on October 19 and 20, 2026.
The two-day meeting is expected to focus on strengthening cooperation among SCO member states across key sectors, including trade, economic development, investment, regional connectivity, innovation and cultural-humanitarian exchanges.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the meeting will also review progress on ongoing cooperation initiatives and consider matters concerning the organisation’s financial and institutional functioning.
Regional Cooperation and Economic Engagement in Focus
The SCO meeting provides a platform for member countries to discuss shared priorities and explore opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. Discussions on trade, investment and connectivity are expected to remain important as member states seek to strengthen economic links and regional partnerships.
Innovation and cultural exchanges will also feature among the key areas of engagement, reflecting the organisation’s broader focus on cooperation beyond traditional economic ties.
For India, the meeting offers an opportunity to exchange views with other member states and advance practical initiatives that support regional development and closer engagement.
India’s Role in SCO Initiatives
India continues to participate actively in various SCO mechanisms, contributing to cooperation in areas such as start-ups, innovation, digital public infrastructure and people-to-people exchanges.
The country’s participation reflects its interest in promoting constructive engagement with regional partners and exploring opportunities for collaboration in technology, economic development and cultural interaction.
The Council of Heads of Government is an important component of the SCO’s institutional framework, with discussions covering economic cooperation and organisational matters.
Previous Meeting Held in Moscow
The previous meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government took place in Moscow, Russia, on November 18, 2025. India was represented at that meeting by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.
The upcoming gathering in Dushanbe will provide another opportunity for member states to review ongoing initiatives, discuss common priorities and consider further avenues for cooperation.
Rajnath Singh’s participation underscores India’s continued engagement with the SCO and its efforts to strengthen dialogue and practical cooperation with countries across the region.
