The regular session of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is officially getting underway in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, with the country hosting the high-level meeting under its SCO chairmanship.

The summit brings together heads of state and senior representatives from SCO member countries, as well as invited nations and international organizations, including the United Nations, Kazinform reports.

Leaders are expected to discuss major international and regional developments, along with the SCO’s future priorities and ways to strengthen cooperation among member states.

Key areas of cooperation include:

Politics and security

Trade and economic relations

Transport and logistics

Digital development

Environmental cooperation

Culture and humanitarian ties

The summit is particularly significant as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the SCO.

A package of documents is expected to be signed following the meeting, including the Bishkek Declaration, which will mark the organization’s quarter-century milestone.

The event is also attracting significant international media attention. Around 250 local and 800 foreign journalists are expected to cover the summit in Bishkek.

The SCO was established in 2001 and has grown into a major regional platform bringing together countries across Eurasia to cooperate on security, economic development, transport, culture and other areas.