What Does PM Modi's Upcoming Visit to China Mean for India-China Relations?

Strengthening Ties: PM Modi's Vision for India-China Relations

Tokyo: Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of stable and friendly relations between India and China, describing them as essential for a multi-polar Asia and world. In a recent interview with a prominent Japanese newspaper, he highlighted that such ties could greatly enhance regional and global peace and prosperity.

During the conversation, PM Modi expressed India's willingness to foster relations with China, focusing on mutual respect and shared interests. He pointed out that since his last meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan, the relationship has shown consistent and positive development.

When discussing the current need for improved relations, PM Modi stated, "I will be traveling to Tianjin for the SCO Summit at President Xi Jinping's invitation. Our bilateral relationship has made steady progress since Kazan, and amicable ties between our two nations can positively influence global stability and prosperity, which is vital for a multi-polar world."

He further noted the importance of collaboration between India and China, especially in light of the current economic volatility. As two major economies, they must work together to stabilize the global economic landscape. India is prepared to enhance bilateral relations strategically and long-term, focusing on mutual respect and addressing developmental challenges.

PM Modi's comments come just before his trip to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, set for August 31 to September 1. In his departure statement, he expressed eagerness to meet with President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and other leaders during the summit.

"From Japan, I will head to China for the SCO Summit in Tianjin, invited by President Xi Jinping. India actively contributes to the SCO, having introduced innovative ideas and collaborations in health, culture, and more during our presidency. I look forward to engaging with fellow leaders to tackle shared challenges and enhance regional cooperation," PM Modi stated.

This visit marks PM Modi's first trip to China since 2018 and the first since the violent clash in Galwan Valley in June 2020 between Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

In 2024, PM Modi and President Xi met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, leading to a breakthrough in discussions after both nations agreed on patrolling along the extensive LAC, effectively ending a prolonged border standoff.

On August 21, China's Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, remarked that PM Modi's upcoming visit would significantly boost the development of bilateral relations. He stated, "This visit is crucial not only for the SCO but also for enhancing ties between our two nations. A dedicated working group is ensuring the success of this visit, which we regard as highly important."

On August 19, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with PM Modi in New Delhi, delivering a message and invitation from President Xi for the SCO Summit. PM Modi expressed his satisfaction with the progress in India-China relations since his last meeting with President Xi, emphasizing the need for stable and constructive ties to foster regional and global peace.

During their meeting, PM Modi reiterated the importance of maintaining peace along the border and reaffirmed India's commitment to a fair resolution of boundary issues. He acknowledged the positive developments in bilateral relations since his Kazan meeting, including the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.

The SCO, established on June 15, 2001, is an intergovernmental organization comprising member states such as China, Russia, India, and several Central Asian nations. It also includes observer states and dialogue partners from various regions.