On June 18–19, 2026, the Issyk-Kul International Forum "The World at a Civilizational Crossroads: Together into the Future" was held in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyz Republic. Dedicated to the legacy of the great writer Chingiz Aitmatov, the forum was attended by high-ranking representatives from 17 countries (including Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Member States) and international organisations, including a delegation from the SCO Secretariat.
Opening the meeting, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov emphasized the forum's significant role in fostering intercivilizational dialogue and multilateral cultural ties.
On June 19–20, 2026, the Media Forum of the Shanghai Cooperation Organidation Member States took place in Cholpon-Ata, bringing together leading media representatives, respected media industry experts, and diplomats. The delegates were welcomed by Ulan Mamatkanov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, who noted that this meeting is intended to become an important milestone in consolidating the efforts of SCO Member States in countering information and other challenges of the digital age.
Speaking at the Media Forum, SCO Deputy Secretary-General Oleg Kopylov underscored the high relevance of the Kyrgyz chairmanship's initiative to maintain direct dialogue among media professionals in the interest of fully and objectively conveying information about the SCO's activities, goals, and objectives to the global audience. He called on friendly media outlets to participate as actively as possible in this process. He noted that the Forum should serve as a mechanism for strengthening trust and translating promising ideas into practical projects.
Participants of the Forum discussed industry issues were addressed, including the use of artificial intelligence for media purposes and its legal regulation, the problem of information distortion and fake news, and the role of new media. Participants put forward a number of creative proposals.
On the sidelines of the events, the Secretariat delegation held meetings with the leadership of the Government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic, as well as with heads of foreign delegations. Interviews were given to a number of media outlets.
