Tokayev calls for stronger fight against terrorism, extremism, separatism at SCO summit

September 5, 2026 at 10:04 PM1 min

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Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for intensified cooperation against terrorism, extremism and separatism at the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Bishkek. The summit, marking the SCO's 25th anniversary, brought together leaders of 10 member states and representatives of 8 additional countries. Tokayev also highlighted that trade turnover among SCO members has approached $1 trillion.

Key Facts

The 26th SCO summit took place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, marking the organization's 25th anniversary.
Leaders of 10 member states and representatives of 8 additional countries attended the summit.
President Tokayev identified terrorism, extremism and separatism as the 'three evil forces' requiring continued joint action.
Trade turnover among SCO member states has approached $1 trillion.

Summit Context

The summit was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of independence of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. The SCO was founded in 2001 and has grown to include 10 member states. The expanded format included representatives from 8 additional countries. Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov welcomed the leaders, including Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Security Cooperation

Tokayev stressed that armed conflicts increasingly affect areas beyond combat zones, disrupting international markets, commercial shipping, and energy and transport links. He warned that crises are acquiring a cross-border character and that longstanding threats remain relevant. The fight against terrorism, extremism and separatism remains a priority for interaction, intertwined with transnational crime, drug trafficking, illegal arms circulation and cyber threats. Kazakhstan supports the goals and objectives of the Universal Center for Countering Challenges and Threats and the SCO Anti-Drug Center.

Economic Cooperation

Tokayev emphasized the importance of expanding trade, economic and investment partnership. Trade turnover among SCO member states has approached $1 trillion. Kazakh experts believe the international organization offers significant opportunities for diversifying Kazakhstan's economy.