Xi and Modi Seek to Mend Ties Amid U.S. Tariffs at SCO Summit

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened in Tianjin during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, marking Modi's first visit to China since 2020. The leaders committed to addressing longstanding border disputes and enhancing bilateral cooperation. Modi emphasized the importance of a peaceful border environment for mutual development, while Xi advocated for focusing on economic collaboration over rivalry. Recent diplomatic efforts, including resumed direct flights and eased visa policies, signal a move toward improved relations. The meeting occurs against the backdrop of U.S. President Donald Trump's imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian goods, citing India's continued imports of Russian oil. This development has strained U.S.-India relations, prompting India to seek stronger ties within the SCO framework. Russian President Vladimir Putin also attended the summit, underscoring the geopolitical significance of the gathering.