Xi and Modi Emphasise Friendship over Rivalry
China’s President Xi Jinping and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi have pledged to strengthen bilateral ties after years marked by border clashes and geopolitical friction. Meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, the two leaders agreed on the need for a strategic approach and long-term cooperation between the world’s most populous nations.
Modi described the current climate between the two countries as one of “peace and stability”, signalling a thaw since the deadly border incident in 2020. Xi echoed the sentiment, saying both nations should be “partners, not rivals” and must handle their relationship with vision and patience.
First Modi Visit to China in Seven Years
This summit marks Modi’s first appearance in China since 2018. During the event, he announced the resumption of direct flights between India and China — suspended since the border clashes — though no specific timeline was given.
A Complicated Backdrop: US Tariffs and Sanctions
The meeting comes as India faces increased tariffs from the US, imposed in retaliation for Delhi’s continued oil trade with Moscow. Meanwhile, Xi hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin — another central figure amid Western tensions — underlining the forum’s role as a counterbalance to US-led alliances.
The SCO, originally founded by China, Russia and four Central Asian nations in 2001, aims to offer a platform for regional collaboration. Today, it includes 10 member states, including Pakistan and Iran, and 16 dialogue partners and observers.
Key Developments at the Tianjin SCO Summit:
- Modi and Xi signal renewed cooperation and ease in bilateral tensions.
- India announces restoration of direct flights to China.
- Putin welcomed warmly, showcasing China’s diplomatic alignment with Russia.
- Over 20 world leaders attend what’s become the largest SCO summit to date.
- Event precedes a major military parade in Beijing commemorating WWII’s end 80 years ago.
High Security Meets Civic Enthusiasm
In Tianjin, the summit has transformed the city. Banners and light displays now dominate the riverside skyline, drawing thousands of nightly spectators. However, authorities have urged the city’s 13 million residents to limit movement due to tight security. Taxi services were suspended downtown, and roadblocks frequently delayed pedestrians to facilitate world leaders’ motorcades.
Despite the disruption, locals have shown great interest in the gathering, treating it as a moment of historical significance.
Source: BBC News
