Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, which took place from August 31 to September 1, marked his first trip to the country in seven years. The visit has set the stage for a recalibration of bilateral ties amid evolving geopolitical dynamics and shared interests within the SCO framework.
As Dr. Binod Singh Ajatshatru, Director of the BRICS Institute New Delhi, observed, "Historically and politically, India and China are on the same page." He emphasized the common ground between the two nations, noting that "as part of this world, we are not-West." This sentiment reflects a broader understanding that despite differences, both countries share developmental trajectories and civilizational ties that could facilitate cooperation.
Modi's participation in the summit, followed by a high-level bilateral meeting with Chinese leaders, signaled a mutual intent to navigate points of friction while exploring avenues for pragmatic cooperation. The trip, closely watched by regional observers, comes at a pivotal moment as both Asian giants seek to balance competition and collaboration on issues ranging from border stability to trade and counter-terrorism.
Dr. Ajatshatru also stressed the importance of dialogue and institutional engagement. "We should continue the dialogue on a regular basis," he said, adding that "we should have more forums on India and China." He argued that bilateral progress should not be limited to prime ministerial visits but must involve broader societal engagement: "Every Chinese and every Indian should do much more globally."
The director pointed to economic synergies as a particularly promising area. "This is the best time for India and China to do big business, big investment, and big commitment," he noted. Specifically, he expressed hope that Modi would "give the green signal to direct flights, lower taxes, expedite customs clearance, and remove FDI restrictions." Such measures, in his view, would substantially enhance trade and investment flows.
On security issues, Dr. Ajatshatru highlighted the serious challenge terrorism poses to India and called for stronger bilateral and multilateral cooperation. "Beijing must consider India's fight against terrorism as a serious issue. It's not fake news," he stated. He explained that with open borders—three sides by sea and one by mountain—it is difficult to monitor all movement, making international agreements essential. He urged that the Shanghai Declaration explicitly include counter-terrorism commitments from all member states.
Technology and cybersecurity were another key point. Dr. Ajatshatru called for the SCO to establish clearer norms on technology exports, particularly around surveillance equipment and AI-enabled systems that could be misused. "You call it AI; I call it cybersecurity," he remarked, proposing that the SCO form a dedicated committee on the issue. He also emphasized the need to combat cyber fraud, which has victimized many citizens across the region, including Chinese nationals.
The fact that Modi chose to attend the SCO gathering—and that both sides used the opportunity for structured dialogue—underscores the importance New Delhi and Beijing attach to the platform as a channel for diplomatic engagement beyond Western-dominated forums. This was more than a routine multilateral appearance; it was a carefully calibrated move aimed at stabilizing the relationship through personal diplomacy and symbolic engagement.
Against a backdrop of strategic rivalry and economic interdependence, Modi's return to Chinese soil after nearly a decade hints at a cautious but conscious effort to foster what officials on both sides have called "a new phase of mature and constructive bilateralism." How this recalibration unfolds could have far-reaching implications not only for Asia but for the global balance of power.
Reporter: Xie Hongzhou, Guo Zedong
Video: Guo Hongda
Cover: Cai Junru
Text: Guo Zedong
Video script: Guo Zedong
Editor: Yuan Zixiang, James Campion, Shen He
