Xi and Modi Hold First India Meeting in Seven Years, Pledge Cooperation
Chinese President Xi Jinping traveled to New Delhi for the BRICS summit, his first visit to India in seven years, and met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders agreed to strengthen commercial and cultural ties, with China's foreign minister stating they reached a consensus to be partners rather than rivals. Despite the thaw, analysts note that India-China competition remains a persistent factor in the relationship.
The thaw follows a deadly 2020 border clash in Ladakh. A border agreement in October 2024 eased tensions, leading to pledges for resuming direct flights and boosting commerce. In March 2025, Modi called cooperation with China essential for global stability. The detente predates Trump's tariffs, though those tariffs gave both sides added incentive to deepen trade ties.
Persistent rivalry remains structural. The two nations claim roughly 15,000 square miles of disputed territory, comparable to Greece's size. They also diverge on Taiwan, Tibet, and surveillance. Crucially, China is a close ally of Pakistan; last year, Pakistani forces used Chinese weaponry in air combat operations against India.
The thaw could ease anxieties for border communities and reduce the risk of accidental escalation. Improved commercial ties may lower costs for consumers and businesses in both nations, while also stabilizing regional supply chains. However, the persistent rivalry could keep defense spending high and maintain a climate of mutual suspicion, affecting public sentiment and regional security perceptions.