In Focus by The Hindu Modi-Xi at Tianjin SCO summit: Does it signal a shift in momentum for India-China ties?
Sep 2, 2025
Suhasini Haidar, Diplomatic Affairs Editor, and Ananth Krishnan, Director at The Hindu Group, explore the significance of Prime Minister Modi's visit to China at the SCO summit after seven years. They discuss whether the Modi-Xi meeting heralds a normalization in India-China ties amidst tensions with the US. The duo examines the evolving diplomatic landscape, potential economic collaborations, and the importance of understanding territorial disputes and security concerns while analyzing the future of these complex bilateral relations.
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Tianjin Declaration Was A Diplomatic Win
- The Tianjin Declaration's strong terrorism language is a clear win for India and the SCO's founding purpose.
- India secured specific mentions of the Pahalgam attack and Pakistani incidents to build consensus.
India Embraced SCO Consensus On Global Issues
- India joined a consensus condemning strikes by Israel and the U.S. and highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
- This shows New Delhi's willingness to align with SCO positions on international developments.
Modi's Attendance Signalled Re‑engagement
- India previously sidelined the SCO but returned actively by sending PM Modi after earlier virtual or absent participation.
- Attendance signals a shift toward re-engagement possibly driven by strategic calculations.
