PM Modi and Xi Jinping emphasized cooperation over rivalry at the SCO Summit, stressing stable India-China ties, improved connectivity, and resolving issues while moving beyond border tensions. Image Credit: X/@prameyaodia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the SCO Summit in Tianjin, China, where he met with the Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of the meeting on Sunday. This marks PM Modi's first visit to China in seven years.
The two global leaders discussed pathways to streamline the strained India-China relations, caused due to tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). PM Modi highlighted that the progress and welfare of tens of thousands of people depend upon the cooperation between the two countries. Xi stated that it is important for 'the elephant and the dragon to walk together'.
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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the two leaders confirmed that India and China are not rivals, but development partners. MEA asserted that differences should not become disputes.
India Committed to Stronger Ties
PM Modi said India is ready to advance relations with China based on “mutual trust, respect and sensitivity.” He noted that the border has remained peaceful after last year’s disengagement.
Connectivity and Travel Revival
PM Modi announced the resumption of direct flights and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, suspended for five years due to COVID-19.
Xi Calls for Friendship
Jinping stated that the two nations must be friends and good neighbours amid the global challenges, including trade tensions with the United States.
Elephant and Dragon Together
“The world is going towards transformation… It is vital for the dragon and the elephant to come together,” Xi said, highlighting India and China’s role as civilizational powers and key voices of the Global South.
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Push for Multilateralism
Xi urged both countries to take up their “historic responsibility” to strengthen multilateralism, promote a multipolar world, and bring “more democracy” in global governance.
Not Threats, But Opportunities
Chinese state media quoted Xi saying that India and China are “each other’s development opportunities rather than threats,” and must focus on growth and revitalization.
Border Issues Not the Whole Picture
Xi stressed that border disputes should not define overall ties, while PM Modi added that relations must not be viewed “through a third country lens.”
