Modi and Xi's Informal Meeting at SCO Summit Highlights Key Issues

During the recent SCO summit in Bishkek, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping engaged in an informal meeting, marking a significant moment amidst ongoing discussions about border disputes. Modi emphasized the urgent need to combat terrorism, asserting that it poses a challenge to global peace. The summit, celebrating 25 years of the SCO, focused on key issues such as regional security and economic cooperation. This meeting reflects India's proactive diplomatic stance, aiming to strengthen ties while addressing critical challenges. The implications of this encounter on future relations between India and China remain to be seen.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 1, 2026, 12:14 IST

Informal Encounter in Bishkek

Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan). During the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had an informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two leaders shook hands and engaged in a brief conversation. Notably, this encounter was not part of any scheduled bilateral meeting, yet it marked a significant moment of interaction.

The summit, held in Bishkek from August 31 to September 1, saw participation from leaders of member nations including India, China, Russia, Pakistan, and Iran. During this event, Prime Minister Modi also conducted a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Although there was no formal agenda for a meeting with Xi Jinping, the two leaders managed to have a short but meaningful discussion.

Modi's Firm Stance on Terrorism

Addressing the plenary session of the summit, Prime Minister Modi took a strong stance on terrorism. He emphasized the necessity of dismantling the entire apparatus of terrorism. Modi pointed out that terrorism, separatism, and extremism are the greatest obstacles to regional peace, stability, and development.

He asserted that terrorism is not merely a problem for one nation but a challenge for all humanity. Modi opposed the double standards often seen in the fight against terrorism, insisting that there should be no compromises in this battle. He also highlighted the need to eradicate the financing of terrorism and the entire network supporting it.

India's Priorities

At the SCO summit, India presented three main pillars: Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of creating a terrorism-free environment in the region, enhancing economic cooperation, and strengthening connectivity.

This meeting occurred amidst ongoing discussions regarding border disputes and other issues between India and China. Recently, there has been a positive momentum in the relationship between the two nations. Many diplomatic circles view this informal meeting as a significant signal.

Significance of the Summit

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the SCO's establishment. The theme of the summit, under Kyrgyzstan's presidency, is 'Moving Forward Together for Sustainable Peace, Development, and Prosperity.' Discussions are focusing on regional security, terrorism, trade, energy cooperation, and global challenges.

Prime Minister Modi's visit is seen as part of India's proactive diplomacy. While strengthening traditional ties with Russia, there is also an evident effort to maintain dialogue with China. India's firm stance on terrorism has been consistent, and Modi reiterated that lasting peace in the region is unattainable without dismantling the entire terrorist framework.

It remains to be seen how this informal meeting and the messages regarding terrorism will impact future relations. India appears to be firmly asserting its priorities on the SCO platform.