PM Modi, Xi Jinping Hold Talks as India, China Explore Reset Amid Trump’s Tariff Push

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday told Chinese President Xi Jinping that mutual trust, respect and sensitivity must remain the foundation of India-China ties, as the two leaders met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin.

The meeting, marked by a firm handshake, was seen as a step toward resetting relations between the two Asian neighbours while also serving as a subtle message to US President Donald Trump, whose tariff escalation has strained ties with both New Delhi and Beijing.

Over the course of the 40-minute dialogue, PM Modi highlighted key developments in bilateral relations, including progress in talks between special representatives on the border issue, the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and the restoration of direct flights.

“The interests of 2.8 billion people in our two countries are intertwined with our cooperation. This cooperation is not only essential for our people but also contributes to the welfare of humanity as a whole,” Modi said. He further added, “India is committed to advancing relations with China based on mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity.”

This was Modi’s first visit to China since his 2018 trip to Wuhan, which came after the Doklam standoff. Unlike then, the current visit is focused on strengthening economic and strategic alignment as India and China navigate challenges posed by Washington’s tariff measures.

Modi is also expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Tianjin, marking their first interaction since the US decision to double tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent in response to New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil.