AKP Bishkek, July 27, 2026 --

Prominent media leaders, scholars, and policymakers convened in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, today for the 2026 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the organisation's founding.

Around 260 representatives from nearly 150 mainstream media outlets, prominent think tanks, government departments of SCO countries, and the SCO Secretariat attended the event.

Among the international attendees is a five-member delegation from the Kingdom of Cambodia, led by H.E. Prak Thaveak Amida, Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Information.

Co-hosted by Xinhua News Agency and the Kyrgyz National News Agency "Kabar," the summit aims to deepen regional consensus, drive practical collaboration, and reinforce core SCO values.

Under the theme "The 'Shanghai Spirit' in the New Era: From Shared Values to Practical Cooperation," discussions are focused on four strategic pillars:

Think Tank–Media Integration: Building development consensus and strengthening intra-SCO cooperation.

Economic Development: Unlocking regional potential through practical partnerships.

Global Governance: Upholding fairness and justice through the SCO governance model.

Strategic Coordination: Promoting openness and win-win cooperation.

Parallel to the plenary sessions, the 2026 SCO Expert Forum is exploring achievements and future prospects under the banner of building a closer SCO community. Dr. Kin Phea, Director-General of the International Relations Institute of Cambodia (IRIC), will deliver a keynote address highlighting Cambodian diplomacy and potential ASEAN-SCO synergies.

Marking the silver jubilee, evening events include the SCO 25th Anniversary Photo Exhibition, a Chinese Civilisation Cultural Bazaar, and an official gala dinner. International delegates will conclude the gathering with field visits across Kyrgyzstan from July 28 to 30 to explore the country's cultural heritage and landscapes.

By K. Rithy Reak