VOI World/ Desk
At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a clear message: India and China are development partners, not rivals. The two leaders met on the sidelines of the two-day summit, emphasizing the importance of cooperation over competition, especially amid escalating global trade tensions.
Modi highlighted the restoration of peace along their disputed Himalayan border, affirming India’s commitment to raising bilateral ties driven by mutual trust and respect. Xi echoed the sentiment, stating that both nations should view each other as opportunities for growth, not threats.
The summit reflects broader shifts in global alliances. With rising Western protectionism—including steep U.S. tariffs on Indian goods—India is recalibrating its diplomatic strategy. Modi’s visit marks his return to China after seven years and underscores India’s nuanced approach to global partnerships.
India’s meeting with Xi also coincided with broader SCO dialogues involving Russian President Vladimir Putin and other Eurasian leaders, pointing to a new era of multipolar cooperation. Yet, analysts note that despite warmer ties, deep-seated mistrust and longstanding structural disagreements, particularly over border issues, remain obstacles to full rapprochement.
