PM Modi meets Xi Jinping in Tianjin on sidelines of SCO summit amid focus on tariffs and border tensions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his visit to China by arriving in Tianjin on Aug 30 to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

This marks his first bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping since the Galwan clash of 2020, which severely strained relations between the two countries.

The meeting between Modi and Xi took place on the sidelines of the SCO summit, where leaders from member states are gathered to discuss regional security and economic issues.

The talks came at a time when India continues to face challenges along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh. Despite several rounds of military and diplomatic dialogue, tensions remain unresolved.

Trade was also a key issue in focus, with Modi raising India’s concerns over the recently announced US tariffs that could impact global supply chains and bilateral trade. India has been seeking to balance its economic relations while protecting domestic industries from external shocks.

The discussions further touched on India’s ties with Russia, especially in the wake of the ongoing geopolitical situation. India has maintained strong defence and energy cooperation with Moscow, and Modi’s interactions at the SCO are being closely watched for any signals regarding future alignments.

The summit in Tianjin brought together leaders of Russia, China, India, and other Central Asian nations under the SCO framework.

While official details of Modi’s talks with Xi have not been fully disclosed, the engagement is seen as an important step in managing the strained ties between New Delhi and Beijing.

Observers note that this visit comes at a crucial juncture, as India looks to strengthen its position in regional forums while addressing long-standing border and trade challenges.

Modi’s participation at the SCO summit underlines India’s intent to remain actively engaged with key regional players despite ongoing disputes.