Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin in 2025 marks a significant moment in India-China relations, being his first visit to China in seven years. On the sidelines of the summit, Modi is expected to hold two bilateral meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, one around Sunday noon and a possible second one before the official banquet of the summit.
These meetings are critically important given the context of recent global trade tensions and the strained ties between the US and India following the imposition of steep tariffs on Indian exports by the US. The Modi-Xi meetings aim to reinforce economic ties and address border issues, signalling a potential thaw and normalisation after years of tension following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes and subsequent disengagement processes.
The SCO Summit itself, a 10-member regional bloc, is regarded as significant for the diplomatic dynamics among India, China, Russia, Pakistan, and other member states, especially amidst shifting global alliances and trade challenges.
Apart from the discussions with President Xi, PM Modi will also likely meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, a meeting that draws considerable global attention due to recent US sanctions on India linked to its energy dealings with Russia. China’s hosting of the summit, with over 20 foreign leaders and heads of international organisations attending, further highlights the importance of this event in shaping regional and global geopolitical landscapes.
Both India and China view the SCO platform as an opportunity to promote peace, security, and development in the region, and their bilateral engagements during the summit are expected to set the tone for future cooperation.
The meetings are framed by ongoing efforts at diplomatic normalisation, marked by recent talks between their Special Representatives on boundary issues and a mutual desire to strengthen neighbourly relations despite past conflicts. Additionally, China’s welcoming stance and expectations of India’s constructive role within the SCO reflect a shared interest in regional stability and collaborative responses to common challenges.
PM Modi’s bilateral meetings with Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin at the SCO Summit are pivotal diplomatic engagements that could help recalibrate India-China relations positively and enhance regional cooperation amidst a complex and evolving geopolitical context marked by trade tensions, border normalisation efforts, and shifting alliances.
Based On A PTI Report
