During his discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tianjin on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that India-China cooperation will lead to the “welfare of the entire humanity” and reiterated New Delhi’s commitment to advancing bilateral relations based on respect, trust, and sensitivity.

The two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit was the backdrop for the meeting, which aimed to deepen bilateral ties and build on recent gains in India-China relations. Threats of US tariffs are also a factor in this.

In his introductory remarks, Prime Minister Modi remarked, “Thank you for the invitation, President Xi Jinping. We had productive talks in Kazan last year, which contributed to the improvement of our relationship. A climate of peace and stability has been established following the border disengagement. Our special representatives have reached a consensus about border management. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has resumed its journey. Additionally, direct flights between the two countries are starting up again.”

According to the prime minister, collaboration between the two countries is tied to the interests of the 2.8 billion people who live in both countries.

Additionally, this will clear the path for the well-being of all people. We are dedicated to advancing our relationship based on respect, trust, and tact,” he stated.

PM Modi thanked the Chinese president on taking over as SCO chairman. The meeting also included top government officials from both countries, including Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and NSA Ajit Doval.

The two leaders’ most recent meeting was held in 2024 in Kazan, Russia, during the BRICS Summit.

A four-year border conflict was essentially eased when both sides agreed on patrolling procedures along the 3,500-kilometer Line of Actual Control (LAC), which paved the way for the breakthrough in negotiations.

The border disputes between the two countries were also discussed in the meetings between PM Modi and Xi Jinping.

Experts say the two leaders’ meeting in Tianjin is “symbolic” and important for bolstering bilateral relations and acting as a powerful deterrent to US tariffs.