Modi and Xi Jinping Discuss Strengthening India-China Relations at SCO Summit
Strengthening Ties Between India and China
In a bid to enhance relations between New Delhi and Beijing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a two-day visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. During his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday, Modi reflected on their productive discussions from last year in Kazan, which he believes positively influenced India-China relations. He noted that following the withdrawal of troops from the border, a climate of peace and stability has emerged.
Modi announced that an agreement has been reached between the special representatives of India and China regarding border management. He also mentioned the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage and the restoration of direct flights between the two nations. Emphasizing the interconnectedness of the 2.8 billion people from both countries, he stated that their cooperation would contribute to the welfare of all humanity. Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to advancing relations based on mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity.
During their bilateral talks, Modi congratulated Xi on China's successful presidency of the SCO, expressed gratitude for the invitation to China, and highlighted the importance of 'trust, respect, and sensitivity' in India-China relations.
The meeting holds significance amid a sudden downturn in India-U.S. relations due to trade and tariff policies. Modi and Xi are set to meet on the sidelines of the SCO summit, which begins on Sunday.
Official sources indicated that given the breadth of topics to be discussed, a follow-up meeting later in the day is likely. The last encounter between the two leaders occurred in October during the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. Before returning to India, Modi may also meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The SCO summit will commence with an official banquet hosted by Xi Jinping.
The 'SCO Plus' summit, organized by China, will see participation from leaders of 20 nations. This year, China holds the presidency of a ten-member group that includes Russia, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Belarus. Russian President Vladimir Putin is also attending the summit, along with leaders such as Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, and Maldives' President Mohamed Muizzu. The leaders' summit is scheduled for Monday.
Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Bin previously stated that this year's SCO summit is expected to be one of the largest gatherings of heads of state and a significant event in domestic diplomacy. He mentioned that in his keynote address, Xi Jinping would elaborate on China's new perspectives and proposals for the SCO, promoting the 'Shanghai Spirit' and meeting the expectations of the people.
Upcoming Events Following the Summit
After the two-day summit, many leaders are likely to stay in Beijing to witness China's largest military parade on September 3. This parade commemorates the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the global anti-fascist war.