SCO Summit: PM Expected to Visit China for First Time in Seven Years

Preparations are ongoing for Prime Minister Modi’s likely visit to China for the SCO Summit. The summit will be held in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1 this year. Sources say the visit, though not confirmed, is being seriously considered by the government. If finalized, this will mark Modi’s first China visit since 2018. The previous visit also took place during the SCO Summit in Qingdao. During the event, several world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, will be present.

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PM Modi May Visit China for SCO Summit Amid Global, Regional Strains

Modi is expected to meet Xi on the sidelines of the summit. This meeting could shape regional diplomacy amid tense global scenarios. India and China share complex ties, especially post the 2020 military standoff. The two sides have gradually resumed diplomatic and cultural engagements. However, recent developments have tested the progress made. India is carefully weighing its options before making an official announcement. Diplomatic channels are actively coordinating the potential visit.

If Modi’s China visit materializes, a bilateral with Xi Jinping is likely to occur there. This meeting gains importance amid India-US-China tensions regarding trade tariffs and Russian oil imports.India is balancing its strategic ties with both the West and China carefully. The global geopolitical landscape is shifting rapidly with new alliances and rivalries forming. Modi and Xi’s meeting could set the tone for future cooperation or confrontation. Both countries have resumed some earlier engagements like visas and the Mansarovar Yatra. Direct flight discussions between India and China have also resumed recently. Despite these efforts, tensions remain over regional military activities.

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Modi-Xi Talks Likely at SCO Amid Rising India-US-China Tensions

In May, India found evidence of Chinese support to Pakistan’s military during Operation Sindoor. China allegedly provided intelligence and drones to Pakistan during that military confrontation. This development has again strained trust between Delhi and Beijing. Strategic concerns have taken precedence over softer diplomacy in bilateral relations now.India’s security establishment recently obtained intelligence about Chinese support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. Evidence suggests that Beijing provided surveillance intelligence and equipment to the Pakistani military. India has raised strong concerns over this support during bilateral security assessments.

Chinese drones and weapons were reportedly used against Indian troops during the conflict. These revelations have intensified strategic concerns within India’s defence and diplomatic circles. Modi’s visit is now under review considering this hostile military cooperation. The Indian government remains cautious about announcing the visit officially before assessing all risks. A final decision is expected after consultation with security, diplomatic, and political advisors. Delhi remains committed to protecting national security interests above diplomatic outreach.

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