In a significant development, the leaders of China and India have expressed that trust is deepening between their nations, following years marked by tension, including a protracted border dispute.
In a significant diplomatic encounter, China’s President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit held in the port city of Tianjin. Modi is visiting China for the first time in seven years.
During a recent exchange, Xi emphasised the importance of partnership between China and India, urging that the two nations should collaborate rather than compete. In response, Modi highlighted the current “atmosphere of peace and stability” that exists between the countries.
President Putin is present at the summit, which has drawn more than 20 world leaders. However, this year’s event is significantly impacted by ongoing trade tensions with the United States.
President Trump has enacted significant tariffs on Indian imports in response to Delhi’s persistent acquisition of Russian oil. At the same time, Putin confronts potential sanctions due to his ongoing military actions in Ukraine.
Amid growing challenges in the US-India relationship, Prime Minister Modi is strengthening ties with Xi Jinping. The two nations stand out not only for their large populations but also for hosting two of the largest economies globally.
Prime Minister Modi has declared the resumption of flights between India and China, which have been halted since the fatal troop clashes along their shared Himalayan border in 2020. However, no specific timeline for the restart has been provided.
Xi emphasised the importance of both parties approaching their relationship with a strategic mindset and a long-term view, asserting that fostering friendship is the correct path for both sides.
The SCO summit, while primarily symbolic, provides a platform for leaders to express common grievances and align on shared interests. Just days ahead of a significant military parade in Beijing, the event will commemorate 80 years since the conclusion of World War II.
The grouping comprises 10 member states, which include Russia, Pakistan, and Iran, alongside 16 dialogue partners and observers.
On Sunday, Putin, a close ally of China, received a red carpet welcome upon his arrival in Tianjin.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was established in 2001 by China, Russia, and four Central Asian nations, aiming to counterbalance the influence of Western alliances, notably NATO.
The gathering this year marks the largest attendance since its inception.
The summit has transformed into a significant event for Tianjin, with banners and billboards prominently displayed across the northern port city to promote it.
During the night, tens of thousands of local spectators have flocked to the riverside area to witness a captivating light show projected onto the tower blocks as the gathering unfolds.
The streets have become increasingly congested, posing significant challenges for pedestrians attempting to navigate the area, particularly in the vicinity of the historic Jiefang Bridge.
Throughout the day, pedestrians occasionally find themselves halted as roadblocks are implemented to facilitate the swift passage of motorcades belonging to visiting world leaders.
The suspension of taxis and other hire car services in the downtown area has not diminished the excitement among the crowds eager to participate in what is being hailed as a historic meeting.
Authorities have urged the over 13 million residents of Tianjin to refrain from unnecessary travel within the city and to limit their shopping to local stores for essential items.
