Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Tianjin to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, marking his first visit to China in seven years. The high-profile trip saw Modi holding bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, setting the tone for what could be a cautious recalibration in ties between the two Asian giants.
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During the talks, Modi emphasized that India and China were “committed to taking relations forward” and highlighted what he described as an “atmosphere of peace and stability” along the border. He pointed to recent positive developments, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and the revival of direct flights between the two countries. “The interests of the 2.8 billion people of both nations are intertwined with our cooperation. This will also contribute to the welfare of humanity,” Modi said, while congratulating China on its successful SCO chairmanship.
President Xi welcomes Modi’s presence at the summit
President Xi welcomed Modi’s presence at the summit, underlining that India and China represent two great civilizations with a responsibility to work together. “The support of the dragon and the elephant is important. Friendship between India and China carries weight not just for our countries but for the world,” Xi remarked.
Modi also delivered a subtle but pointed message through three carefully chosen words – trust, respect, and sensitivity. Officials said these words underline India’s expectations from China: that trust must be built on honest engagement, mutual respect must guide dialogue, and sensitivity must prevail on contentious issues, particularly along the disputed border.
The meeting, though cordial, comes against the backdrop of years of strained ties since the 2020 border clashes. While both leaders avoided contentious rhetoric, Modi’s “three-word message” signaled that India seeks cooperation but remains firm on its core concerns.