Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday that New Delhi is dedicated to building ties with Beijing based on “mutual respect, trust, and sensitivities.” The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, takes place as both Asian giants signal a cautious warming of relations.
Modi highlighted the progress made on the long-disputed Himalayan border, noting that an atmosphere of “peace and stability” has been created after years of deadlock. He also confirmed that a border management agreement has been reached, though specific details were not shared. These remarks represent a significant departure from the situation following the 2020 clashes that had largely frozen cooperation between the two nuclear-armed nations.
A Unified Stance
The talks occurred just days after Washington imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods in response to New Delhi’s purchases of Russian oil. Analysts suggest that Modi and Xi are now seeking to present a united front against pressure from the West. Both sides have announced plans to resume direct flights that were suspended in 2020, while Beijing recently removed export restrictions on rare earth minerals, fertilizers, and tunnel boring machines. China’s ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, had previously pledged that Beijing would “firmly stand with India” against U.S. trade actions.
Steps Toward Renewed Cooperation
The two leaders last met in Russia in 2024, where they agreed on a border patrol framework. Since then, India has eased visa restrictions for Chinese tourists, and Beijing has allowed Indian pilgrims to visit Buddhist sites in Tibet. Experts believe that both nations are carefully redefining their relationship, balancing their rivalry with pragmatic cooperation.
