On July 14, 2026, the "Shanghai Cooperation Organization Countries Civilizations Dialogue — 2026" was held in Bishkek, with the participation of over 200 cultural figures, representatives of government bodies, media, and academic circles from SCO member states.
In his speech, Ulan Mamatkanov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, noted that amid rapid technological changes and profound transformations in international relations, the ability of states to conduct meaningful dialogue and jointly seek answers to common contemporary challenges acquires particular value. He emphasized that the Kyrgyz side, remaining committed to the principles of the "Shanghai Spirit," views its chairmanship in the SCO as a responsible mission and an opportunity to give new impetus to further cooperation within the Organization.
SCO Deputy Secretary-General Piao Yangfan, in her address, stressed that close cultural and humanitarian cooperation across the Organization's space strengthens the sense of community and fosters an atmosphere of harmonious coexistence of civilizations. She underlined that such cooperation makes an important contribution to improving mutual understanding among peoples and promotes overall peaceful development. The SCO will continue to expand experience exchange in the field of cultural heritage preservation and transmission, support cultural innovations, and facilitate global intercivilizational dialogue.
The participants of the Dialogue expressed the shared view that the destinies of the world's countries are interconnected, and that the peaceful coexistence and mutual enrichment of civilizations based on inclusive dialogue are of great significance for shared progress.
During the event, a ceremony was held to launch a number of cultural projects, documents on media cooperation were signed between relevant institutions of SCO member states, and thematic roundtables took place. The participants were presented with a stage performance inspired by the epic "Manas," a digital cultural-historical exhibition "Liangzhu — The Origins of Chinese Civilization," as well as an art exhibition titled "Beautiful SCO."