New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, in a significant effort to further stabilise India-China relations.
The meeting is important because relations between the two Asian powers have remained tense since the deadly military clash in eastern Ladakh in 2020. Xi’s visit to India is also his first since 2019.
Border Peace Remains a Key Issue
- During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi stressed that peace and stability along the India-China border are essential for the continued development of bilateral relations.
- The two sides discussed the need to follow existing agreements and understandings concerning the border. Both leaders indicated that differences between the two countries should not develop into disputes.
- India and China reached an agreement in 2024 that helped reduce tensions in parts of eastern Ladakh and led to troop disengagement. However, the wider boundary dispute has not been resolved.
Focus on Trade and Cooperation
- The leaders also discussed strengthening economic and business relations.
- India and China have seen a significant recovery in trade, while both countries have gradually restored some diplomatic, travel and business links. At the same time, India continues to have concerns about the trade imbalance and remains cautious about Chinese investment in sensitive sectors.
- Xi Jinping stressed the importance of a long term strategic relationship between India and China. He called for greater cooperation and said the two countries should work together on development and international issues.
A Cautious Thaw
- The meeting represents another step in the gradual improvement of relations following years of tension.
- However, it does not mean that all differences between India and China have been resolved. Border disputes, trade concerns, strategic competition and differences over regional security remain important challenges.
- Analysts therefore see the meeting as a sign of cautious diplomatic engagement rather than a complete reset of relations.
BRICS Provides a Wider Platform
- The Modi-Xi meeting took place during the 18th BRICS Summit being hosted by India in New Delhi.
- The summit brought together leaders of the expanded BRICS grouping and focused on economic cooperation, global governance, development, peace and international security.
- The BRICS New Delhi Declaration called for dialogue, consultation and diplomacy to resolve international disputes. It also highlighted stronger cooperation among developing and emerging economies.
What Comes Next?
- The success of the India-China rapprochement will depend largely on developments along the border and whether both countries can maintain the progress made through diplomatic and military channels.
- For India, maintaining border peace while protecting national security remains a priority. For China, stronger relations with India could improve cooperation within BRICS and strengthen economic and diplomatic engagement with one of the world’s largest economies.
- The Modi-Xi meeting therefore marks an important moment in India-China relations, but the relationship is likely to continue moving forward carefully and gradually.
