Modi and Xi Call Themselves Partners, Stress Cooperation for Asian Century While Tackling Terrorism at SCO Summit

Advertisment

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin on Sunday. In their meeting, Modi strongly raised the issue of cross-border terrorism.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Modi told Xi that cross-border terrorism hurts both India and China. He also stressed that both countries should stand together to fight this problem. Misri added that China showed understanding and offered cooperation on the matter.

This was Modi’s first visit to China in seven years. It was also his second meeting with Xi since the two countries ended a long border standoff last year. Their talks came at a time when relations remained sensitive after the clashes of 2020.

Focus on Border Peace and Stability

Advertisment

During the meeting, Modi also spoke about the need for peace along the India–China border. He said calm and stability at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) are important for the smooth growth of ties. Both leaders agreed that the disengagement achieved last year must continue and that peace at the border is key to moving forward.

Misri said Modi and Xi also spoke about the larger role of India and China. They agreed that both nations are focused on domestic growth and should be seen as partners rather than rivals. Together, they represent nearly 2.8 billion people. According to Misri, both leaders felt that differences must not become disputes and that cooperation is needed for an “Asian century”.

Terrorism and Global Cooperation at the SCO Summit

At the SCO Summit, Modi again highlighted terrorism as a serious challenge. He said double standards in dealing with terrorism cannot be accepted. Modi also thanked the countries that supported India after the recent Pahalgam attack. He called terrorism a “collective challenge to humanity” and urged stronger global action against terror financing.

Advertisment

Xi, in his speech, criticized global “bullying” and called for fairness and justice. He promised to work with SCO members to strengthen security cooperation. He also announced grants to support member states.

The Modi–Xi meeting showed signs of rebuilding trust after years of tension. Apart from terrorism and border peace, discussions also touched on trade and the possibility of reviving direct flights. Modi invited Xi to attend the BRICS Summit in India next year.

The talks reflected a common goal: keeping differences under control while finding areas to cooperate. For both leaders, cross-border terrorism and border peace are now priorities in shaping the future of India–China ties.