POLITICS
SCO Think Tank Forum 2026 held in Shanghai
On June 6–8, 2026, the SCO Think Tank Forum was held in Shanghai, China, under the theme “The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in the Context of Deep International Transformation: Responding to Challenges and Moving Forward.” Experts and scholars from SCO member states exchanged views on the organisation’s role in promoting multilateral cooperation and global governance.
SCO delegation participates in SPIEF 2026 in St. Petersburg
On June 4–5, 2026, a delegation of the SCO Secretariat, led by Deputy Secretary-General Ahmad Saidmurodzoda, participated in the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) held under the theme “Pragmatic Dialogue: the Path to a Stable Future.” The SCO Secretariat representative engaged in discussions on Eurasian economic integration and multilateral cooperation.
Ceremonial reception marks 25th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
On June 15, 2026, a ceremonial reception was held in Beijing marking the 25th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, noted that over 25 years SCO member states have upheld equality and justice, fought the “three evils,” opposed external interference, and defended the primacy of international law. SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev emphasised that the 25th anniversary symbolises decades of tireless work and forward-looking vision, from the “Shanghai Five” to the world’s largest transregional organisation.
International conference “Central Asia – core of the SCO” held in Dushanbe
On June 12, 2026, an international conference “Central Asia – core of the SCO: space of peace and joint development” was held in Dushanbe to mark the 25th anniversary of the SCO. The conference was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan, the Academy of Public Administration under the President of Tajikistan, and the SCO Friendship and Cooperation Centre in Tajikistan. SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev noted in his video address that the Central Asian states make a significant contribution to cooperation across the Organisation’s key areas of activity.
SCO and UN Secretariats hold fourth round of consultations in New York
On June 26–27, 2026, the fourth round of consultations between the Secretariat of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and the Secretariat of the United Nations took place at UN Headquarters in New York. The two organisations reviewed cooperation on sustainable development, counter-terrorism, and climate security, reaffirming their commitment to multilateralism.
ECONOMY
SCO Secretariat participates in opening of China-Eurasia EXPO in Urumqi
On June 25, 2026, the opening ceremony of the Ninth China-Eurasia EXPO took place in Urumqi, China, under the theme “New Opportunities of the Silk Road – New Energy of Eurasia.” Organisers included the Ministry of Commerce of China, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, and the People’s Government of the XUAR. The SCO Secretariat, the China-Central Asia Format Secretariat, and the Institute for Regional Economic Cooperation in Central Asia served as partners. Kazakhstan and Pakistan were invited as countries of honour.
CULTURE
SCO Secretary-General attends “Colorful China” cultural tourism presentation event
On June 24, 2026, SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev attended the “Colorful China” event in Beijing, showcasing the cultural and tourism potential of China’s regions. The event was organised by the Department for Industry Development of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Service Centre, the Beijing Municipal Culture and Tourism Bureau, and the People’s Government of Dongcheng District.
TECHNOLOGY
SCO Secretary-General meets Director of China-SCO AI Cooperation Centre
On June 2, 2026, SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev received Pan Jingyu, Director of the China-SCO Cooperation Center in the Field of Artificial Intelligence, at the SCO Secretariat in Beijing. The two sides discussed expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and innovation among SCO member states.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Victoria Khu speaks at the international “Voices of SCO Women” Forum in Uzbekistan
On June 8, 2026, to mark the 25th anniversary of the SCO, the SCO People’s Diplomacy Centre in Uzbekistan, together with the Youth Parliament of the Oliy Majlis Senate and the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, hosted the international women’s forum “Voices of SCO Women: from Society to the International Arena.” Victoria Khu, Chair of SCOLAR Network, delivered welcoming remarks emphasising the importance of women’s leadership, international youth cooperation, and expanding opportunities for women across the SCO region.
SPORTS
SCO Cycling Cup: 25 Years Together was held in Beijing
On June 13, 2026, the first “SCO Cycling Cup: 25 Years Together” was held at Beijing’s Wenyu River Park, dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the SCO. The event was organised by the SCO Secretariat and the SCO Business Council Secretariat. SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev attended the opening ceremony and delivered a welcome speech. The race distance was 12 km. Over 100 participants took part. Russian athletes won first place; athletes from China and Russia shared second place; athletes from India, China, and Russia took third place.
EDUCATION
Presentation of Rashid Alimov’s book takes place in Beijing
On June 19, 2026, during the 32nd Beijing International Book Fair (BIBF) at the China National Convention Centre, a presentation was held for the book by Professor Rashid Alimov, former SCO Secretary-General (2016–2018), “The Shanghai Cooperation Organization: from Regional Mechanism to Global Factor.” Deputy SCO Secretary-General Ahmad Saidmurodzoda and Victoria Khu, co-founder of SCOLAR Network, participated.
KAU International Summer School 2026 was held in Almaty
From 22 to 27 June 2026, the KAU International Summer School was held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, organized by the Kazakh-American University (KAU) in partnership with SCOLAR Network. The Summer School was conducted within the framework of the SCOLAR Almaty Candidate Hub initiative, aimed at expanding the Network’s presence in Kazakhstan and strengthening international youth cooperation across the SCO region. The program brought together 22 participants from nine countries: the United States, China, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Mongolia, Greece, Russia, Uzbekistan and the host country, Kazakhstan. Among the participants were 10 active members representing the SCOLAR Beijing, Bishkek, and Tashkent Hubs, creating an environment that encouraged the exchange of experience between established SCOLAR communities and prospective members of the Almaty Candidate Hub.
POLITICS
Belarus and Indonesia agree on closer international cooperation
On June 30, 2026, Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxim Ryzhenkov and Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono held talks in Jakarta. The two sides agreed to deepen coordination on international platforms and expand cooperation in trade, industry, and innovations. The visit formed part of a major East and Southeast Asian tour by Belarus’s leadership.
President Lukashenko embarks on major East and Southeast Asia tour
In late June 2026, President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko embarked on a major multi-nation visit to countries in East and Southeast Asia. The visit aimed to strengthen bilateral ties, expand trade and economic cooperation, and diversify Belarus’s external economic partnerships.
ECONOMY
Beltamozhservice opens Belarus-Brazil logistics corridor
In June 2026, Beltamozhservice launched a new service for delivering container cargoes from Belarus to Brazil, targeting Belarusian exporters interested in the Brazilian market. The new corridor expands Belarus’s logistics network and opens access to the rapidly growing Latin American market.
Belarus aims to boost BelAZ dump truck exports to Indonesia
In June 2026, Belarus negotiated an increase in BelAZ dump truck supplies to Indonesia, which had already received five 130-tonne dump trucks in 2026. The Belarusian and Indonesian sides discussed expanding cooperation in the mining and construction sectors using Belarusian heavy machinery.
National Bank of Belarus adds seven new currencies to monthly exchange rate list
From June 30, 2026, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus added seven new foreign currencies to the list for monthly official exchange rate publication: the Bahraini dinar, Namibian dollar, Nicaraguan córdoba, Myanmar kyat, Mauritian rupee, Omani rial, and Bangladeshi taka. The measure reflects Belarus’s expanding trade and economic ties with new partners.
ECONOMY
PM Modi highlights India’s 7.7% GDP growth in FY2025-26
India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s strong economic performance after the country recorded 7.7% GDP growth in FY2025-26, reaffirming its position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy. The growth was driven by robust domestic demand, infrastructure investment, and an expanding manufacturing base, cementing India’s role as a key economic partner within the SCO framework.
India GST collections rise 13.9% to $20.68 billion in June 2026
India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF)
India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections recorded strong double-digit growth of 13.9% in June 2026, reaching US$20.68 billion. The increase was driven by higher import revenues, improved tax compliance, and sustained economic activity across sectors. The robust GST performance reflects the resilience of India’s domestic economy.
World Bank raises India’s FY2026-27 growth forecast to 6.6%
India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF)
The World Bank raised India’s growth forecast for FY2026-27 to 6.6%, citing strong domestic demand, continued government infrastructure spending, and an expanding services sector. India remains the fastest-growing major economy and is projected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2026, reflecting the strong fundamentals that underpin its partnership with SCO member states.
EDUCATION
Russia and India launch cross-year educational cooperation programme 2026-2027
Russia and India are advancing educational cooperation through a cross-year programme for 2026–2027 that spans academic exchanges, joint research, and student mobility. The initiative strengthens people-to-people links between the two SCO member states and builds on Russia’s similar cross-year cooperation programme with China in the same period.
POLITICS
Iran reaffirms commitment to SCO cooperation and regional development
In June 2026, Iranian officials reaffirmed the country’s commitment to deepening engagement within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, emphasising cooperation in energy, transport, and digital connectivity. Iran stated that its policy prioritises developing cooperation with Russia, BRICS, and SCO member states as key pillars of its international relations strategy.
ECONOMY
Iran-Russia review Rasht-Astara railway progress and Caspian maritime cooperation
In June 2026, Iran and Russia reviewed progress on the Rasht-Astara railway construction and discussed expanding maritime cooperation through the Caspian Sea. The railway forms a critical link in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) connecting Russia, Iran, and the Indian subcontinent, strengthening SCO member state connectivity.
ECONOMY
Kazakhstan and Germany discuss expanding investment and energy cooperation
In June 2026, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov met with German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Katherina Reiche to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, industry, energy, transport and logistics, and critical minerals. The talks highlighted Kazakhstan’s role as a leading investment destination in Central Asia.
EDUCATION
President Tokayev addresses attendees of the international youth gathering “Aibyn-2026”
In June 2026, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev addressed attendees of the 12th International Military-Patriotic Youth Gathering “Aibyn.” The President emphasised that Kazakhstan’s future rests with the younger generation and called on youth to actively participate in the country’s innovative development.
TECHNOLOGY
Kazakhstan joins Pax Silica initiative and signs AI Opportunity Partnership declaration
Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Zhaslan Madiyev took part in the second Pax Silica Summit in Washington, D.C., where Kazakhstan signed the Declaration on accession to the Pax Silica initiative and the joint statement on the AI Opportunity Partnership. Kazakhstan is cementing its position as an active player in global artificial intelligence and semiconductor markets.
Kazakhstan showcases digital transformation and AI achievements at the United Nations
In June 2026, Kazakhstan presented its progress in digital transformation and artificial intelligence during a high-level event at UN Headquarters in New York, marking the UN Year of Artificial Intelligence. Kazakhstan’s delegation briefed participants on national strategies in AI, digital governance, and e-services.
POLITICS
Chinese State Councilor calls for high-quality development of SCO women’s causes
On June 26, 2026, a Chinese State Councilor called for high-quality development of SCO women’s causes in remarks delivered at an SCO-related event. The official put forward specific proposals on strengthening cooperation among member states in gender equality, women’s education, and professional development.
International Conference on SCO’s 25th anniversary convenes in Shanghai
On June 9–10, 2026, the International Conference themed “The 25th Anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: New Challenges and New Steps in Global Governance” convened in Shanghai, China, bringing together over 300 delegates from SCO member states and the international community to review the organisation’s journey and chart future cooperation.
ECONOMY
Ninth China-Eurasia EXPO opens in Urumqi under the theme “New Opportunities of the Silk Road”
On June 25, 2026, the Ninth China-Eurasia EXPO opened in Urumqi, Xinjiang, China, under the theme “New Opportunities of the Silk Road – New Energy of Eurasia.” The EXPO brought together government representatives and business communities from SCO member states to discuss trade, investment, and connectivity.
EDUCATION
Russia-China Cross Years of Education Cooperation 2026-2027 officially launched
In 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a resolution officially launching the Cross Years of Russian-Chinese cooperation in the field of education for 2026–2027. The programme will promote academic exchanges, joint research, and student mobility, deepening education and people-to-people cooperation between the two SCO member states.
ECONOMY
Energy Expo Kyrgyzstan — SCO 2026 international exhibition successfully concludes in Bishkek
On June 18–19, 2026, the Energy Expo Kyrgyzstan — SCO 2026 international exhibition was successfully held in Bishkek. More than 40 companies from Kyrgyzstan, China, Russia, India, Belarus, Turkey, and Vietnam presented modern technologies, equipment, and innovative solutions for the energy industry, underscoring Kyrgyzstan’s role as a platform for energy cooperation dialogue in the SCO region.
Kyrgyz State Tax Service exceeds revenue plan by 46.5 billion soms
In June 2026, the Kyrgyz State Tax Service reported exceeding its revenue plan by 46.5 billion soms. The strong results reflect growing business activity, improvements in tax administration, and an expanding tax base amid sustained economic growth in the country.
CULTURE
Kyrgyzstan plans to introduce international Blue Flag certification on Lake Issyk-Kul
In June 2026, Kyrgyzstan announced plans to introduce the internationally recognised Blue Flag certification on Lake Issyk-Kul to improve tourism standards and the quality of rest for visitors. The certification will highlight the ecological and recreational significance of one of the world’s most beautiful mountain lakes in the context of SCO regional tourism development.
ECONOMY
Pakistan’s GDP grows 3.7% in FY2025-26, economy reaches $452 billion
Pakistan’s economy grew by 3.7% in FY2025-26 — the fastest rate in four years — with the overall size of the economy reaching $452 billion. Per capita income rose to $1,901 from $1,751 in the previous fiscal year. Growth was supported by agricultural recovery and an expanding services sector, as highlighted in the Economic Survey FY26 presented in June.
ECONOMY
29th SPIEF gathers over 20,000 guests from 130 countries in St. Petersburg
From June 3 to 6, 2026, the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) was held under the theme “Pragmatic Dialogue: the Path to a Stable Future.” The forum gathered over 20,000 guests from more than 130 countries, with Saudi Arabia as the guest country. Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered the keynote at the plenary session on June 5. Leaders of several SCO member states attended, including President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Investments in Russia’s economy in 2026 comparable with previous year figures
According to TASS, the volume of investments in Russia’s economy in 2026 is expected to remain comparable with 2025 figures, despite external constraints. Domestic investors remain active, with the investment climate supported by government incentive measures and priority financing of strategic sectors.
SPORTS
International Fencing Federation lifts all restrictions on Russian fencers — national flag and anthem restored
The International Fencing Federation (FIE) lifted all previously imposed restrictions on Russian and Belarusian fencers, allowing them to compete in international tournaments under the national flag and anthem. Russian athletes are now cleared to participate in the FIE World Championships 2026 in Hong Kong on July 22–30.
FIFA clears Russian youth national teams for U-15 World Cup competitions
FIFA cleared Russian youth national teams for participation in U-15 World Cup competitions. The decision opens opportunities for the development of Russian youth football and represents a step towards the gradual return of Russian teams to international venues.
EDUCATION
Russia and China launch Cross Years of Educational Cooperation 2026-2027
Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a resolution on organizing Cross Years of Russian-Chinese cooperation in the field of education in 2026–2027. The programme covers academic exchanges, joint research, language programmes, and promotion of student mobility between the two SCO member states.
POLITICS
Conference “Central Asia – the Core of the SCO” held in Dushanbe to mark SCO’s 25th anniversary
On June 12–13, 2026, the conference “Central Asia – the Core of the SCO: A Space of Peace and Shared Development” was held in Dushanbe to mark the 25th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The event, organised under Tajikistan’s chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of Government, brought together policymakers, scholars, and experts from member states.
ECONOMY
International Conference on Financial and Banking Cooperation within SCO opens in Dushanbe
On June 10–11, 2026, the International Conference on the Development of Financial and Banking Cooperation within the SCO opened in Dushanbe under the theme “Artificial Intelligence, Digitalisation, Risk Management and ESG”, within the framework of Tajikistan’s SCO Council of Heads of Government chairmanship. Participants discussed ways to improve banking cooperation and establish payment mechanisms among SCO states.
EDB forecasts Tajikistan’s GDP to grow by over 8% in 2026
The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) forecasts Tajikistan’s GDP will grow by more than 8% in 2026, placing the country among the leading economies in the Eurasian region. Growth is driven by a construction boom, rising remittances from labour migrants, and expanding trade with SCO partners.
EDUCATION
Dushanbe to host SCO Youth Forum in 2026
Dushanbe has been announced as the host city of the SCO Youth Forum 2026 within the framework of Tajikistan’s chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of Government. The forum will serve as a platform for young leaders from SCO member states to exchange ideas in the fields of education, entrepreneurship, and cultural cooperation.
ECONOMY
Uzbekistan plans international IPOs for Uzbekistan Airways and Uztelecom
The Government of Uzbekistan announced plans to conduct IPOs of Uzbekistan Airways and Uztelecom on international markets by 2027. The initiatives form part of a broad privatisation and foreign capital attraction programme under Uzbekistan’s economic reform strategy.
World Bank approves $150 million for Uzbekistan’s Rural Infrastructure Development Programme
The World Bank approved $150 million in concessional financing to support the second phase of the Rural Infrastructure Development Programme in Uzbekistan. The programme aims to improve roads, water supply, and electricity systems in 296 mahallas across six regions by 2031.
SPORTS
Uzbekistan chess team wins bronze at FIDE World Team Blitz Chess Championship
Uzbekistan’s national chess team won the bronze medal at the FIDE World Team Blitz Chess Championship in Hong Kong. Javokhir Sindarov scored 12 points from 19 games, and several Uzbekistani players earned individual board medals. The team’s performance confirms Uzbekistan’s growing standing in world chess.
