Modi-Xi Meeting Sparks Hopes of India-China Reset Ahead of SCO Summit

Tianjin/New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu): In a significant diplomatic engagement ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a 40-minute meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tianjin on Sunday. The two leaders discussed border stability, bilateral cooperation, and efforts to reset strained ties between the two Asian giants.

‘Trust and Respect Are the Foundations’: PM Modi

PM Modi thanked Xi Jinping for the warm reception and emphasized the importance of mutual trust and sensitivity in India-China relations. “Our meeting in Kazan last year helped steer ties in a positive direction,” said Modi, adding that recent disengagement along the border had fostered a more stable and peaceful environment.

Modi highlighted that special representatives from both sides have reached a consensus on enhanced border management, and pointed out the resumption of Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimages and direct flight operations between India and China as positive signs of progress.

“We remain committed to advancing relations based on mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity,” the Prime Minister said, while also congratulating Xi Jinping for China's successful presidency of the SCO.

Accompanying PM Modi were National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Indian Ambassador to China Pradeep Rawat, and Joint Secretary (East Asia) Gaurang Lal Das.

Xi Jinping: “Dragon and Elephant Must Walk Together”

Chinese President Xi Jinping also struck a conciliatory tone, saying that India and China must find common ground amid a rapidly changing world. “The previous meeting in Kazan was fruitful. It’s essential for the dragon and the elephant to walk together,” Xi said, symbolizing both nations' global stature.

Xi stressed the importance of India-China cooperation for regional and global stability, especially in the Global South. “As the world experiences historic transformations, the two most populous and ancient civilizations must act as responsible stakeholders,” he added.

Marking 75 years of India-China diplomatic relations, Xi called for a strategic and long-term approach to bilateral ties, urging deeper collaboration on multilateralism, a multipolar world order, and reform in global institutions.