China, Kazakhstan, Iran, others confirm participation in SCO Civilisational Forum, says Gajendra Shekhawat
India is set to host the inaugural Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Civilisational Dialogue Forum in New Delhi from November 20-22, 2026. The event aims to move beyond geopolitical and economic discussions to focus on shared cultural heritage, with participation confirmed from several member nations.
Why it matters
The forum represents an effort by India to leverage the SCO platform for soft power and cultural diplomacy, potentially easing regional tensions through shared civilisational values.
New Delhi China, Kazakhstan, Iran, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are among the countries that have confirmed participation in the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) Civilisational Dialogue Forum, which India will host at the historic Purana Quila here from November 20-22, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said on Friday (November 13, 2026). India to host inaugural SCO Civilisation Dialogue Forum by end of 2026: Rajnath Singh in Tajikistan storyline 1 Interacting with the media at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi ahead of the event, Mr. Shekhawat said he remained "hopeful" that Pakistan would also confirm its participation and attend the forum.
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