India to Host Inaugural SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum, Says Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Returning to New Delhi after a busy stint in Tajikistan, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh used the closing moments of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting to drop a significant piece of news: India will host the inaugural SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum before the year is out.

Speaking in Dushanbe, Singh told his counterparts that the forum is meant to be more than a ceremonial gathering. “We invite all SCO countries to participate,” he said, emphasizing that the event will aim to deepen cultural understanding, celebrate shared heritage, and build people‑to‑people bridges across the vast region.

While the cultural angle was front and centre, Singh was quick to pivot to security concerns that still loom large. He warned that terrorism continues to gnaw at economic growth and youth opportunities, noting that “terrorism not only steals innocent lives, it also disrupts investment, commerce and the dreams of our young people.” He called for a collective, uncompromising approach to dismantle every link in the terrorist ecosystem, urging SCO members to shun any double standards.

Singh also used the occasion to underscore India’s long‑standing friendship with Tajikistan and the broader Central Asian neighbourhood. He recalled the 25‑year journey of the SCO, pointing out that the organisation’s future hinges on deeper cooperation in everything from connectivity projects to security collaboration.

On a softer note, the minister paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on Bukhoro Street in Dushanbe, a small yet symbolic gesture that reminded everyone of the power of non‑violence. He also squeezed in meetings with Tajik Prime Minister Qohir Rosulzoda and Iran’s First Vice‑President Mohammad Reza Aref, keeping diplomatic channels warm.

Back at the airport, Tajik Defence Minister Emomali Sobirzoda saw Singh off, sealing a visit that blended high‑level diplomacy with a clear message: India is ready to host, to listen, and to act together with its SCO partners on culture, security and shared prosperity.