Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi: A Meeting of Strategic Importance in Turbulent Times

On Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian President Narendra Modi met in Tianjin, marking Modi's first visit to China in seven years. This much-anticipated meeting occurred during the 25th gathering of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), an alliance spearheaded by China and Russia to foster economic and military cooperation among non-Western countries. For Xi, the gathering serves as a critical opportunity to bolster his international standing, particularly as he positions China as a stabilizing force for nations distanced from U.S. influence due to stringent tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. This strategic approach has been part of Xi's long-term vision, especially during periods of crisis in the West, as China aims to project stability amid global uncertainties. The timing of this meeting is particularly opportune for Xi, coinciding with the implementation of 50 percent U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, a move described by Trump as punishment for India's purchase of Russian oil. This development has inadvertently nudged Modi closer to Xi, reversing India's previous alignment towards the U.S. aimed at countering Chinese expansion. China and India, the most populous nations, rank as the second and fifth largest global economies, respectively. However, the two nations share a complex relationship characterized by trade rivalries and unresolved territorial disputes. Nevertheless, they also uphold mutual economic interests, with India relying on Chinese industrial production for essential raw materials and components. Meanwhile, China is eager to deepen its investments in India's market, particularly as its own economy shows signs of slowing down. The SCO meeting features over 30 global leaders and heads of international bodies, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, a close ally of Xi. While significant decisions are not expected from this summit, a positive indicator of the shift in Chinese-Indian relations was Modi's announcement before the meeting regarding the resumption of direct flights between the two countries. These flights had been suspended for five years following violent clashes between China and India in June 2020 at Galwan Valley, a region administered by India that has been a flashpoint for tensions. In this context, the resumption of direct flights symbolizes a thaw in relations, aiming to rekindle economic ties that have suffered due to a history of hostility and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The earlier suspension of flights had stalled numerous projects due to halted Chinese visas and investments, resulting in major ramifications, including India's ban on over 200 Chinese applications, such as TikTok. As the international community closely observes the evolving dynamics between China and India, this meeting between Xi and Modi may set the course for future collaboration or contention in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3