"SCO Summit: Putin, Xi, and World Leaders Gather Amidst Rising Tensions"

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a virtual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), where he called for joint efforts to combat terrorism, assist Afghanistan, and address global challenges. The SCO, formed in 2001 by China and Russia, seeks to expand its influence by accepting Iran as a member. The summit took place with the participation of leaders from China, Russia, Pakistan, and central Asian countries, as well as Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. Iran is set to become the ninth member of the SCO, while Belarus will sign a memorandum of obligations for future membership. The inclusion of Iran and Belarus will expand the SCO's reach in both Europe and Asia.