Xi and Modi Signal Diplomatic Thaw at Tianjin SCO Summit
Tianjin, August 31, 2025 — Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, marking a significant gesture of rapprochement between their nations following years of tense relations sparked by deadly border clashes in 2020.
Building Bridges Beyond Disputes
In their talks, Modi conveyed that bilateral ties have advanced in “a meaningful direction,” highlighting a revived atmosphere of peace and stability along the Himalayan border, thanks to previous disengagement efforts. Xi echoed this sentiment, stressing that border disputes must not overshadow broader cooperation, and urged both sides to prioritise economic development over rivalry.
“Partners, Not Rivals”
Emphasising a new diplomatic trajectory, both leaders reiterated that India and China are partners, not rivals. Xi described each nation as a development opportunity, not a threat, and urged sustained, healthy, and stable bilateral growth.
Geopolitical Undercurrents
The meeting took place just days after Washington imposed 50% tariffs on Indian imports, prompted by Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil. In this context, Modi asserted that India and China pursue strategic autonomy, insisting that their bilateral ties should not be viewed through “a third-country lens.” Analysts see this as a mutual effort to push back against Western pressure and assert geopolitical independence.
Momentum from Earlier Diplomatic Moves
- In August, China’s top diplomat Wang Yi visited Delhi, where both countries agreed to restart border talks, resume visas and direct flights.
- In June, India resumed issuing tourist visas, and pilgrims were again allowed access to Tibetan holy sites, notably the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
- A border patrol agreement in October 2024 and the restoration of direct flights in early 2025 also helped reduce tensions.
Regional Context and SCO Dynamics
The Tianjin summit brought together key international actors, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, reflecting the strategic significance of this SCO gathering as a centre for Global South diplomacy. Xi, invoking a vivid image, called on the “dragon and elephant”—a metaphor for China and India—to come together as civilisational peers.
Summary Table
| Key Theme | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Border Stability | Both leaders emphasised restored peace and disengagement on the Himalayan border. |
| Strategic Messaging | They shared the refrain “partners, not rivals,” and underscored shared development goals. |
| Diplomatic Progress | Built upon earlier ties—visits, resumed flights, visa relaxations, and pilgrim access. |
| Geopolitical Shift | Occurred in parallel with U.S. tariffs, suggesting alignment beyond Western frameworks. |
| Regional Spotlight | SCO summit served as a platform for broader alignment amid shifting global alliances. |