Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Tianjin, signaling a potential thaw in relations driven by recent US tariffs on India, with both leaders pledging cooperation despite longstanding tensions.
The meeting occurred during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit over the weekend, where Modi and Xi engaged in discussions aimed at improving bilateral ties. This encounter marks Modi’s first visit to China since the 2020 border clash, which had severely strained relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Immediate agreements included the resumption of direct flights between India and China and the simplification of visa processes, measures intended to facilitate greater economic and cultural exchange. These steps are seen as confidence-building measures to address the deep-seated mistrust that has characterized the relationship.
The context for this diplomatic outreach is heavily influenced by external factors, particularly the Trump administration’s imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian imports. The US cited India’s refusal to cease purchasing Russian oil as the reason, a move that has economically pressured New Delhi and prompted a reassessment of its international partnerships.
Both leaders emphasized the concept of being “partners not rivals,” with President Xi invoking the imagery of the “dragon and elephant dancing together” to underscore the potential for harmonious cooperation. Modi, in turn, highlighted the need for the two nations to work through their differences for the benefit of their combined population of 2.8 billion people.
Despite the positive rhetoric, significant obstacles persist. India faces a substantial trade deficit with China, exceeding $99 billion, and both countries maintain high tariffs in various sectors. Beijing desires greater access to India’s vast market, but Delhi is cautious without addressing the imbalance.
The border issue remains a critical flashpoint, with tens of thousands of troops still deployed along the disputed frontier. While recent talks have aimed at de-escalation, a permanent resolution is elusive. Additionally, China’s support for Pakistan, India’s arch-rival, continues to be a source of tension.
This meeting is interpreted as part of India’s policy of “strategic autonomy,” seeking to navigate complex global dynamics without over-reliance on any single power. However, it presents challenges, as India is also a key member of the Quad alliance with the US, Japan, and Australia, which is viewed as a counter to Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific.
The future of India-China relations will hinge on tangible progress in border negotiations and economic cooperation. The geopolitical landscape, shaped by US policies under Trump, will undoubtedly influence whether this renewed engagement leads to sustained improvement or remains a temporary alignment of interests.