China officially welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s planned visit to the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, 2025 his first trip to China in over seven years. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun described the gathering as a gathering of friendship and expressed hope that it would bring tangible results and a new era of cooperation.
Chance to Reset India–China Relations After Years of Strain
This visit stands out as a major step toward deeper cooperation between the two nations. The last time Modi came to China was before the 2020 border clash in Galwan, which strained ties. While both countries have since resumed dialogue and eased restrictions such as restarting tourist visas and resuming the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage this summit provides a rare platform to restore momentum.
In recent months, India reopened visa access for Chinese visitors, which India hopes will foster better people-to-people links.
Modi Meets SCO Leaders Amid Global Turmoil
The SCO Summit will bring together leaders from over 20 countries, including major regional powers and heads of international organizations. China’s foreign ministry emphasized that this will be the largest summit since the SCO’s founding, reflecting its importance on the global stage.
Beyond symbolism, the summit arrives at a geopolitically sensitive moment. Modi is expected to visit Japan just before China, signaling India’s intent to balance regional ties. He may also meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Putin on the sidelines an outcome watched closely by the world. India’s refusal to sign an earlier SCO defense statement seen as pro-Pakistan signals its intent to assert its own narrative, especially regarding terrorism.
Border Talks and Deepening Diplomacy Ahead of Modi’s Visit
Even before Modi’s arrival, dialogue between India and China has gained traction. On August 18, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi plans to meet India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval in New Delhi. Their discussions will cover border security and broader diplomatic matters suggesting both sides want a stable foundation before the summit.
In addition to high-level talks, both nations have taken steps to revitalize cultural and humanitarian links. India resumed issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals after a five-year break, signaling a desire to rebuild trust and facilitate understanding between their peoples. This soft diplomacy helps lay a foundation for smoother bilateral engagement during and beyond the summit.
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