Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will leave for Qingdao, China today to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting, scheduled for June 25–26. Singh stated that he looks forward to sharing India's perspective on global peace and security and will emphasize the importance of collective and sustained efforts against terrorism.

In a post on X, Singh mentioned, "On June 25, I will be heading to Qingdao, China, for the SCO Defence Ministers' Meeting. I’m looking forward to engaging with fellow Defence Ministers on multiple key issues and highlighting India’s vision for peace and security, while also pushing for united action against terrorism." The meeting will address matters related to regional and global peace, anti-terrorism strategies, and enhanced cooperation among the SCO defence ministries.

According to a Ministry of Defence statement, Rajnath Singh will reaffirm India's dedication to the SCO’s goals, emphasize the need for economic cooperation, connectivity, and joint efforts to combat extremism. He is also expected to meet bilaterally with his counterparts from several countries, including China and Russia.

The ministry added that India views the SCO as crucial for strengthening multilateral ties and fostering political, economic, and cultural cooperation in the region. The SCO is guided by principles such as respect for sovereignty, non-interference, and equality among member states. Established in 2001, the SCO includes countries such as China, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, Belarus, and several Central Asian nations. India joined as a full member in 2017 and held the rotating chairmanship in 2023. China is the current chair for 2025, under the theme "Upholding the Shanghai Spirit: SCO on the Move."