PM Modi and President Xi Jinping meet after 10 months at SCO summit, paving way for stronger bilateral ties and economic cooperation
PM Modi and Xi Jinping’s Meeting: Key Highlights
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Tianjin on the sidelines of the SCO summit, marking their first face-to-face interaction in 10 months. This meeting is seen as a positive step toward rebuilding and strengthening India-China relations amid global geopolitical shifts.
1. Steady Progress in Bilateral Ties
Both leaders welcomed continuous improvement in diplomatic and economic relations since their last meeting at the BRICS summit in Russia. Emphasizing partnership over rivalry, they agreed that differences must not escalate into disputes.
2. Resumption of Direct Flights
A major highlight was the announcement that direct flights between India and China will resume, ending the suspension caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. PM Modi did not specify a date, but this move is expected to facilitate travel and business.
3. Revival of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and Tourist Visas
The pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar has resumed this year. Additionally, India has restarted issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals, both of which were halted during the pandemic.
4. Emphasis on Strategic Autonomy
The two leaders stressed the importance of maintaining strategic autonomy, insisting that their bilateral relations should not be influenced by third-party countries. They highlighted collaboration on global issues like terrorism and fair trade.
5. Peace and Stability on the Border
Following the 2020 Galwan clash, both nations have worked to restore peace. Their prior disengagement efforts have led to calm along the border, reaffirming the commitment to tranquility.
6. India and China as Global South Leaders
President Xi Jinping referred to both nations as key members of the Global South, tasked with enhancing the welfare of their citizens through cooperation.
7. Moving Beyond Border Disputes
Both leaders agreed that the border issue should not define the entire relationship. They aim to nurture long-term, stable, and healthy bilateral ties through strategic dialogue.
8. Economic and Trade Opportunities
The improving ties open new avenues for trade, benefiting sectors such as India’s electric vehicle market and providing China greater access to Indian consumers.
9. Reopening of Border Trade
Following recent foreign minister-level talks, border trade will resume, helping diversify commerce amid global tariff uncertainties.
10. Assurance on Critical Resources
China assured India of cooperation in supplying rare earth minerals, fertilizers, and tunnel boring machines to support Indian infrastructure and industry needs.
What This Means for India-China Relations
The diplomatic thaw between India and China comes at a critical time when India’s relations with the US face challenges due to tariffs and geopolitical friction. Strengthening ties with China signals a shift in New Delhi’s foreign policy, which could reshape economic and strategic dynamics in Asia and beyond.
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