WANA (Aug 31) – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said before departing for Kyrgyzstan to attend the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit that Iran is not seeking war, but will respond to any act of aggression with strength and resolve.

 

Pezeshkian said instability and unrest in the region serve no country’s interests and could create serious challenges for all regional states. He stressed the need for regional countries to work together to strengthen security, economic development and stability.

 

Referring to the deep historical and civilizational ties among regional countries, the Iranian president expressed hope that constructive dialogue at the SCO summit would help expand security, economic and political cooperation among member states.

 

Pezeshkian also issued a warning to those carrying out aggression, saying: “We are not seeking war, and this is a clear message we have already conveyed to the world. However, we will never stand idle in the face of aggression and will respond decisively to any aggressors.”

 

The Iranian president also stressed the longstanding historical and civilizational ties among regional countries, expressing hope that constructive dialogue at the summit would help advance regional security, economic cooperation and development.

 

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also departed for Bishkek alongside Pezeshkian to attend the SCO summit. The Iranian delegation is scheduled to take part in the 26th SCO Summit, which is being held in Bishkek on August 31 – September 1, with Kyrgyzstan serving as the organization’s chair in 2026.

 

The summit is being held under the theme, “25 Years of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization: Together for Peace, Development and Sustainable Prosperity.”

 

Pezeshkian is also scheduled to address the SCO leaders’ summit and the SCO Plus meeting, while holding bilateral talks with senior Kyrgyz officials and other leaders attending the gathering.