After seven years, Modi’s China visit at the SCO summit hinted at thawing ties, with his meeting with Xi offering the first signs of renewed momentum
Both leaders spoke of India and China as “development partners, not rivals,” marking a softer tone after years of mistrust and border tensions
Modi stressed ties must not be viewed through a “third country lens,” signaling India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy in its China engagement
The SCO summit highlighted shifting power balances, as Xi called for a “multipolar world” and showcased China’s ambition to recast global order
India sought a “mutually acceptable” border solution, while China downplayed disputes, invoking Panchsheel and a long-term view of relations
Goodwill was evident, but divergences remain. India’s silence on China’s Global South pitch shows differences that may sharpen if geopolitics shift