India's Prime Minister Modi and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping affirmed their countries as partners rather than rivals during a live discussion, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Headline: Modi, Xi, and Putin Convene at SCO Summit Amidst Global Tensions and Trade Pressure

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in China for the SCO Summit, marking his first visit to the country in over seven years. The meeting, which brings together more than 20 leaders from Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East, carries significant weight, as the world is closely watching the upcoming encounter between Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The picture of unity at the SCO Summit is important for Xi and Putin, who see it as a counter to US influence. For Modi, the summit presents an opportunity to maintain a working relationship with China, especially given the recent tensions along the border. Both sides have agreed on better border management, which has helped maintain peace and stability after troop disengagement.

The meeting also gives the leaders an opportunity to coordinate their response against Trump's rising tariff pressure and sanctions. India, which has been hit hard by the steep tariffs on its exports, totaling 75%, is carefully managing pressure from Washington during the SCO Summit.

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to meet Putin during the SCO Summit in Tianjin on August 31, 2025, after Modi's address at the plenary session of the summit. Proposals like boosting the BRICS New Development Bank, creating new payment systems, and expanding energy trade between Russia, India, and China are expected to be discussed.

Smooth India-China relations are crucial for BRICS to work better, whether for showing unity on a global stage or pushing joint financial projects. Highlighting the importance of cooperation, Modi stressed that the welfare of nearly 2.8 billion people is closely connected to India-China relations.

Modi announced that direct flights between India and China will soon resume, a move that is likely to strengthen bilateral ties. The meeting between Modi and Xi Jinping during the SCO Summit is the first visual encounter between the two leaders since their talks in Kazan last year.

The SCO Summit is a stage for China to show its leadership role among Global South countries. However, the summit also provides opportunities for India to engage with Xi Jinping and Putin, as India aims to push for better trade links, stronger connectivity, and joint efforts against terrorism.

Experts believe Modi's participation in the SCO Summit reflects India's effort to calm border tensions with China. The SCO Summit 2025 is not just a political platform; it is a testament to the growing economic and strategic ties between the participating nations.

India's Prime Minister Modi and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping affirmed their countries as partners rather than rivals during a live discussion, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs.