Archive · 2 Sep 2026
SCO Declaration Rejects Terrorism Double Standards, Condemns Iran Strikes
Leaders from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation met in Bishkek and agreed on a document called the Bishkek Declaration.
They said countries should fight terrorism everywhere and should not use different rules for different groups.
They also opposed terrorists crossing borders.
The leaders criticized military attacks on Iran and said these attacks harmed civilians and the Iranian economy.
They called for the conflict to be solved through talks and diplomacy.
The group said it is not a military alliance aimed at other countries.
India’s proposals on youth, science and innovation were included in the declaration.
Pakistan will lead the group next and host its leaders’ meeting in 2027.
SCO leaders adopted the Bishkek Declaration calling terrorism, separatism and extremism unacceptable in all forms.
The declaration urged countries to combat terrorism and the cross-border movement of terrorists with a central UN role.
SCO members condemned military strikes on Iran, citing civilian deaths and economic damage, and supported diplomatic efforts.
The declaration reaffirmed sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference and opposition to double standards on human rights.
Pakistan will assume the SCO presidency, with the next leaders’ meeting scheduled there in 2027.
- Who
- Leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, including India, Pakistan, Iran, Russia, China and Central Asian countries.
- What
- They adopted the Bishkek Declaration addressing terrorism, Iran, international law, human rights and cooperation.
- When
- The declaration was adopted on Tuesday; the next SCO leaders’ meeting is planned for 2027.
- Where
- Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan.
- Why
- The declaration sought to coordinate action against terrorism, oppose perceived double standards and support diplomatic efforts over regional conflicts.
- Declaration
- Bishkek Declaration
- Main terrorism position
- Double standards in combating terrorism are unacceptable, and countries should address cross-border terrorist movement.
- Position on Iran
- SCO members condemned military strikes on Iran and supported a political and diplomatic resolution.
- International framework
- The declaration called for implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.
- SCO characterization
- The group said it is not a military-political bloc and is not directed against other states or international organizations.
- Language change
- English was added as an official and working language of the SCO.
- Future presidency
- Pakistan will assume the SCO presidency and host the next Council of Heads of State meeting in 2027.