BISHKEK — Leaders from China, Russia and India have gathered with other heads of state in Kyrgyzstan for a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a regional grouping seeking greater influence over international security and economic affairs.
The discussions are expected to cover terrorism, regional security, Afghanistan, energy cooperation, cross-border trade and transportation networks. The meeting also provides an opportunity for bilateral talks among countries that sometimes have competing interests.
The SCO includes China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran and several Central Asian states. Although the members do not maintain a NATO-style collective-defence commitment, the organisation has become an important diplomatic platform for countries seeking alternatives to institutions led by the United States and its allies.
The summit comes amid continuing wars in Ukraine and Iran, international trade disputes and growing competition over influence in Central Asia.
Why it matters: Decisions taken at the gathering could influence relations among major Asian powers and strengthen political, economic and security cooperation outside Western-led structures.
