China's Xi and Modi, leaders of China and India respectively, promise enhanced relations in a groundbreaking encounter prior to a regional congress
In a significant development, India and China have been working to strengthen their bilateral relations amidst escalating trade tensions between China and the US.
India recently criticised the 'double standards' in the trade relationship of the US and Europe with Russia. This criticism comes as US President Donald Trump announced tariffs and a penalty on India over Russian oil and arms imports. Amidst these steep tariffs on a range of Indian products, India seems to be searching for new partners and markets and making efforts to strengthen existing ones.
The US-China trade spat has not deterred China and India from improving their relations. Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met in Tianjin, marking Modi's first visit to China since 2020, when border clashes occurred between Chinese and Indian soldiers. In his opening remarks, Modi stated that relations with China have improved and there is a peaceful environment at the borders.
Xi Jinping emphasised that economic development should be the main focus for both countries. He also expressed hope that the Tianjin meeting would further enhance and promote the development of bilateral relations. In line with this, the rise in official visits between China and India this year includes discussions on removing some restrictions on cross-border travel and trade.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China provided a platform for Xi to engage both leaders, including the rival India and Russia, to demonstrate unity and cooperation among member states. Russian President Vladimir Putin participated alongside Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi at the SCO summit, where he played a role as a key participant in the anti-Western grouping but did not dominate the meetings, which were hosted by Xi Jinping.
Beijing opened Tibet's sacred sites to Indian pilgrims in June, another step towards improving bilateral relations. Both governments announced their intention to restart border talks and resume issuing visas and direct flights.
According to Xi, if both countries remain committed to being partners and providing development opportunities, China-India relations will flourish. This optimistic outlook was echoed by Modi, who stated that relations with China have improved.
In a recent development, China's top diplomat Wang Yi visited New Delhi, marking a rapprochement between the two sides. This visit indicates a positive trajectory for the India-China relationship, despite the ongoing trade tensions between China and the US.
However, the tariff showdown between Trump and Modi has shattered their once robust populist alliance. It remains to be seen how this will impact the broader geopolitical landscape, particularly in the context of the India-China relationship.
In a separate event, Modi visited the site of an Air India crash in Ahmedabad, underscoring his commitment to addressing domestic issues and maintaining a focus on India's internal affairs.
As India and China continue to navigate their relationship amidst global trade tensions, it is clear that both leaders are committed to fostering a peaceful and prosperous partnership.
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