The Morning Brief Of Dragons and Elephants: Modi–Xi in Focus
Sep 2, 2025
Pranab Dhal Samanta, Executive Editor of Politics at ET, brings his political expertise to the conversation on India-China relations. He delves into the complexities of Prime Minister Modi's recent meeting with President Xi, examining whether it signals a shift or a pragmatic pause in ties. The discussion covers key topics, including trade imbalances, the strategic dynamics at the SCO meeting, and the challenge of normalizing relations while navigating alliances with global powers. Samanta highlights the delicate balance India must strike amidst evolving geopolitical landscapes.
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Public Chemistry Signals Cautious Reset
- Modi and Xi displayed warmer public chemistry after years of tension, signaling a cautious reset of ties.
- This thaw focuses first on normalization steps like resumed flights, visas, and trade facilitation.
Economic Easing Comes First
- Beijing has already eased targeted supply-chain squeezes on items like magnets, fertiliser and tunnel-boring machines.
- Normalisation of economic ties will likely take six to eight months of incremental measures.
Trade Gap Shapes Diplomacy
- India's goods trade deficit with China hit nearly $100bn, pressuring the normalization calculus.
- Border disengagement gives political space, but core trust issues remain unresolved.