The 2026 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit opened in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, on July 28, 2026. The event, themed "The Shanghai Spirit in the New Era: From Shared Values to Practical Cooperation," gathered approximately 260 representatives from nearly 150 mainstream media organizations, leading think tanks, government departments, and the SCO Secretariat across member countries. The summit aims to strengthen information security within the SCO, deepen academic cooperation, and build bridges of friendship among member states.

Keynote Addresses and Strategic Focus

Daiyrbek Orunbekov, head of the Information Policy Service of the Presidential Administration of Kyrgyzstan, emphasized the critical role of media and think tanks in guiding public opinion and safeguarding trust among nations. He stated that coordination between these entities provides a reliable shield against disinformation. Orunbekov expressed confidence that the summit would serve as a platform for generating new ideas and initiatives to enhance regional stability.

Xi Yanchun, vice president of Xinhua News Agency, called for media organizations and think tanks to act as bridges, seeking common ground while respecting differences. She urged participants to promote solidarity, mutual trust, and multilateralism. Yanchun highlighted the need for practical, efficient, and action-oriented cooperation to drive development and revitalization within the SCO framework.

Addressing Digital Risks and Governance

Mederbek Shermetaliev, director of the Kabar News Agency of Kyrgyzstan, noted that while digital technologies facilitate information exchange, they also introduce risks such as cybersecurity threats and disinformation. He proposed that SCO member states establish regular dialogue mechanisms among think tanks, conduct joint research, and cultivate young experts to deepen intellectual and people-to-people cooperation.

Liu Jiangping, Chinese ambassador to Kyrgyzstan, described media and think tanks as chroniclers of the times and advocates of cooperation. He stressed the global need for objective, truthful, and comprehensive reporting to overcome prejudice and bridge differences. Liu added that such cooperation is a vital way to put the Shanghai Spirit into practice amid profound changes in information dissemination methods.

Publications and Outcomes

During the summit, two key think tank reports were released:

Kadyrbek Sarbayev, a senior expert with the SCO Secretariat, stated that the summit would help deepen exchanges and contribute to the organization’s long-term development. Mirzokhid Rakhimov, head of the Department of Contemporary History at the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan, advocated for building on the Silk Road’s legacy to promote regional connectivity and sustainable development through deeper think tank exchanges.

What the Numbers Show

The participation of approximately 260 representatives from nearly 150 organizations underscores the SCO’s prioritization of soft power and narrative alignment. The joint hosting by Xinhua News Agency and Kabar News Agency highlights a strategic effort to integrate Chinese and Central Asian media perspectives. The release of reports in multiple languages indicates a focus on broadening the reach of SCO-aligned narratives beyond traditional diplomatic channels.