Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday that New Delhi is committed to building ties with Beijing based on “mutual respect, trust and sensitivities.”
The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, comes as both Asian giants signal a tentative thaw in relations.
Modi highlighted progress on the long-disputed Himalayan border, saying an atmosphere of “peace and stability” has been created after years of standoff. He confirmed that an agreement on border management has been reached, though details were not disclosed.
The remarks mark a notable shift following deadly clashes in 2020 that froze most cooperation between the two nuclear-armed rivals.
India and China seek united front
The talks came just days after Washington imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods over New Delhi’s purchases of Russian oil. Analysts say Modi and Xi are now looking to present a united front against Western pressure.
Both sides announced plans to resume direct flights suspended since 2020, while Beijing recently lifted export curbs on rare earths, fertilisers and tunnel boring machines.
China’s ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, earlier pledged Beijing would “firmly stand with India” against U.S. trade measures.
Steps toward renewed engagement
The two leaders last met in Russia in 2024, where they agreed to a border patrol framework. Since then, India has eased visa restrictions for Chinese tourists, while Beijing allowed Indian pilgrims to visit Buddhist sites in Tibet.
Experts say both nations are cautiously redefining their relationship, balancing rivalry with pragmatic cooperation.
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