Modi Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening India-China Relations

During a significant meeting in Tianjin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed New Delhi's commitment to enhancing bilateral relations with China. This meeting with President Xi Jinping occurred against the backdrop of rising U.S. tariffs, particularly a recent 50% levy on Indian goods linked to India's purchases of Russian oil.

Modi's visit marks his first trip to China in seven years, coinciding with a two-day summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, which includes leaders from Russia, Central Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The summit aims to showcase solidarity within the Global South.

In a readout from the Indian foreign ministry, Modi emphasized the importance of pursuing strategic autonomy and stated that the India-China relationship should not be viewed through the lens of external influences. He highlighted the necessity of progressing towards enhanced bilateral trade and investment while addressing the trade deficit India faces with China.

The two leaders also engaged in discussions regarding collaborative efforts on various regional and global issues, including terrorism and equitable trade practices in multilateral forums. Modi reiterated the commitment to foster a relationship built on mutual respect and trust.

Amidst ongoing tensions along their disputed Himalayan border, which has seen military standoffs since deadly clashes in 2020, Modi noted the establishment of a more stable atmosphere in these regions. An agreement on border management was mentioned, although specific details were not disclosed. Both nations share a contentious 3,800 km border that has been a point of dispute since the 1950s.

President Xi, in response, remarked on the importance of not allowing border issues to overshadow the overall relationship between China and India. He expressed optimism that the bilateral ties could be stable and mutually beneficial if both nations view each other as partners rather than rivals.

The leaders' recent interactions follow a breakthrough meeting in Russia last year, which resulted in a border patrol agreement, signaling a tentative thaw in relations. This improvement has been further accentuated by India's need to mitigate risks from renewed U.S. tariffs.

Modi also announced the resumption of direct flights between the two nations, which had been suspended since 2020, although no specific timeline was provided. Additionally, China has recently lifted export restrictions on critical materials such as rare earths, fertilizers, and tunnel boring machines during a visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to India.

Chinese officials have voiced their support for India in light of U.S. tariffs, with the Chinese Ambassador to India affirming that China will stand firmly with India. For decades, the U.S. has cultivated a relationship with India, viewing it as a strategic counterweight to China's influence in the region.

In recent months, China has allowed Indian pilgrims access to religious sites in Tibet, and both countries have worked to lift reciprocal tourist visa restrictions.

Experts suggest that the relationship between India and China is in a complex process of redefining its equilibrium. However, longstanding issues remain, such as India's significant trade deficit with China, which reached a record $99.2 billion this year. Concerns have also been raised regarding a proposed mega-dam project by China in Tibet, which could significantly impact water flow in the Brahmaputra River, a crucial water source for India.

Moreover, India's hosting of the Dalai Lama, whom Beijing views as a separatist threat, adds another layer of complexity to the bilateral relationship. Additionally, Pakistan, India's arch-rival, continues to receive substantial support from China in various forms.