Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at a memorial dedicated to the Father of the Nation in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Monday, August 31. The visit to the memorial came during Modi’s official trip to the Central Asian nation, where he is attending the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Leadership Summit.
During his time in Bishkek, the Prime Minister also interacted with members of different communities. His visit is taking place at the invitation of Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Zhaparov, with the SCO summit scheduled to bring together leaders from member countries on August 31 and September 1.
Modi arrived in Bishkek on August 30 and received a ceremonial welcome upon landing. Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, welcomed the Indian Prime Minister at the airport. A traditional Kyrgyz cultural dance was also performed as part of the reception.
The welcome continued after Modi reached his hotel, where members of the Indian community greeted him with chants of “Vande Mataram.” He also watched cultural performances, including a yoga presentation set to the patriotic song “Maa Tujhe Salaam” and a dance inspired by Lord Shiva.
Beyond the summit proceedings, Modi is expected to hold bilateral discussions with leaders of SCO member nations on the sidelines of the gathering. The meetings are expected to provide India with an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic engagement and discuss regional priorities with key partners.
The SCO, which is marking 25 years since its establishment, has grown significantly since its formation in 2001. China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan founded the organization. India and Pakistan became full members in 2017, while Iran joined in 2023 and Belarus became a member in 2024.
Before leaving India for Kyrgyzstan, Modi outlined his expectations for the visit. He said India remains focused on advancing a regional vision centered on security, connectivity and opportunity. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation among SCO members to promote a region free from terrorism, separatism and extremism.
The Bishkek visit therefore combines cultural engagement, diplomatic outreach and multilateral discussions, with India seeking to strengthen its role and partnerships within the influential regional grouping.
