SCO Member States Discuss Border Security

Senior border security officials from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states, including India and Pakistan, met in Islamabad on July 18, 2026, to discuss border security and emerging threats.

The 12th Meeting of the Heads of Border Services of the Competent Authorities of the SCO was hosted by Pakistan and brought together representatives from Belarus, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

The participants shared information and assessments related to border security across the SCO region, focusing on the evolving security situation along international borders. They discussed ways to strengthen coordination in addressing emerging challenges, reflecting the organisation's continued focus on improving regional cooperation in border management.

The meeting approved the results of Joint Border Operation 'Solidarity-2025' and the plan for preparing and conducting Joint Border Operation 'Solidarity-2026'. The Work Plan of the Group of Experts of the Border Services of the Competent Authorities of the SCO member states for 2027 was also endorsed.

Tajikistan's proposal to host Joint Border Operation 'Solidarity-2027' in 2027 received support from the participants. The officials also discussed proposals on the venue and timing of the next meeting of the Heads of Border Services of the Competent Authorities of the SCO member states.

The regular exchanges of assessments and the development of common positions on emerging border challenges are expected to strengthen cooperation among the border services of SCO member states, enhancing security and mutual trust along their shared borders.

The SCO is a regional organisation that aims to promote cooperation and stability in the region, and its member states have been working together to address common security challenges. The meeting in Islamabad is a significant step towards strengthening border security cooperation among the member states.

The participation of India and Pakistan in the meeting is notable, given the complex security environment in the region. The two countries have been working to improve their bilateral relations, and their cooperation on border security issues is an important aspect of this effort.

The meeting's outcome is expected to contribute to the improvement of regional security and stability, and to promote cooperation among the SCO member states.

In the context of the current global security landscape, the SCO's efforts to strengthen border security cooperation are significant. The organisation's focus on regional cooperation and stability is crucial in addressing emerging security challenges.

The meeting in Islamabad demonstrates the SCO's commitment to promoting cooperation and stability in the region, and its member states' willingness to work together to address common security challenges.

The outcome of the meeting is expected to have a positive impact on regional security and stability, and to contribute to the improvement of bilateral relations among the SCO member states.