Tianjin, China, August 31 (Reuters) - In a significant diplomatic engagement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed New Delhi's commitment to enhancing relations with Beijing during a crucial meeting with China's President Xi Jinping. This meeting took place on the sidelines of a regional security forum, marking Modi's first visit to China in seven years. He is attending the two-day meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), which also includes notable leaders such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and representatives from Central, South, and Southeast Asia, as well as the Middle East, showcasing a united front of Global South solidarity.
During the meeting, Modi emphasized the importance of progressing bilateral relations based on mutual respect, trust, and an understanding of each other's sensitivities. A video clip shared on Modi's official X account captured this commitment. The timing of this meeting is particularly significant, occurring just five days after the United States imposed steep 50% tariffs on Indian goods due to New Delhi’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil, a move that has raised concerns in Indian political circles.
Analysts suggest that both Modi and Xi are looking to showcase a united front against increasing Western pressure. Modi addressed the long-standing tensions between the two nations, noting that a climate of peace and stability has been established along their disputed Himalayan border. This area has historically been a flashpoint for conflict, especially following deadly troop clashes in 2020 that severely strained relations between the two nuclear-armed nations. Modi mentioned that an agreement regarding border management had been reached, although he did not disclose specific details.
The recent meeting follows a breakthrough between the two leaders in Russia last year, where they reached a border patrol agreement. This agreement has contributed to a tentative thaw in relations, which has gained momentum in light of potential retaliatory tariffs from Washington. Modi also announced the planned resumption of direct flights between India and China, which have been suspended since 2020, although he did not provide a specific timeline for this development.
In another positive note for bilateral relations, China has recently agreed to lift export restrictions on essential materials such as rare earths, fertilizers, and tunnel boring machines. This decision came during a high-profile visit to India by China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Furthermore, the Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, reaffirmed China's support for India in the face of Washington's punitive tariffs.
For decades, the United States has strategically cultivated relations with New Delhi, hoping to position India as a regional counterbalance to China's influence. Recently, China has also taken steps to accommodate Indian citizens by allowing pilgrims to visit Buddhist sites in Tibet and lifting reciprocal tourist visa restrictions.
Experts like Manoj Kewalramani, a specialist in Sino-Indian relations at the Takshashila Institution in Bengaluru, suggest that both India and China are in the midst of a complex and potentially lengthy process of redefining their diplomatic equilibrium. This evolving relationship is likely to continue to shape the geopolitical landscape in Asia and beyond.
