The SCO’s 10 members balanced competing interests to project unity, particularly in response to US influence and growing geopolitical tensions
India backed strong language against terrorism while endorsing the SCO’s condemnation of US-Israel strikes on Iran, despite its ties with Israel and the US
Iran secured unequivocal SCO backing against US-Israeli attacks and support for its right to pursue a peaceful nuclear programme under the NPT
The summit highlighted China’s emergence as the dominant power in Central Asia, with Belt and Road projects strengthening access to critical minerals and energy
India highlighted the India-Middle East Economic Corridor and International North-South Transport Corridor as alternative supply-chain routes amid Hormuz risks
India’s nuanced diplomacy in Bishkek offers a template for the upcoming BRICS summit, with signs of a thaw in India-China ties adding significance