The summit brought together over 400 delegates from 26 countries, including leading media outlets, think tanks, scholars, and policy experts.

Serving as an important platform for advancing strategic dialogue on information cooperation and analytical engagement within the SCO, the summit highlighted the role of media and think tanks in strengthening intergovernmental trust. Participants underscored that the “Shanghai Spirit” remains a cornerstone of multilateral cooperation, fostering constructive dialogue among member states amid evolving global dynamics and an increasingly complex information landscape.

It was emphasized that media and research institutions play a critical role in shaping a fair and balanced information space across Eurasia, supporting political dialogue, and contributing to the region’s sustainable development.

Representing the International Institute for Central Asia (IICA), Senior Research Fellow Shavkat Alimbekov addressed the plenary session on “Youth Dialogue on Innovation in the Digital Era,” aimed at generating fresh ideas and solutions for the region’s harmonious development.

In his address, Mr. Alimbekov highlighted the pivotal role of youth as a driver of innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable growth. He noted that digitalization opens unprecedented opportunities to tackle socio-economic challenges and strengthen ties among SCO states, while the younger generation—equipped with knowledge, creativity, and ambition—can deliver transformative projects shaping the region’s future.

Participants also explored themes of media development, education, and cross-cultural cooperation. Media professionals and students from China, Central Asia, and other SCO countries exchanged perspectives on how emerging intergovernmental initiatives could foster a new generation of public opinion leaders.

According to several attendees, expanding joint expert platforms and enhancing youth-oriented programs will be essential to building trust among nations and generating innovative solutions to modernize the SCO and advance its humanitarian agenda.

The Zhengzhou Consensus and accompanying analytical reports adopted at the summit outlined the key directions for reforming and deepening SCO cooperation. IICA’s participation contributed to strengthening expert networks and humanitarian engagement, reaffirming the active role of youth in advancing integration processes within the Organization.