At Tianjin talks, PM Modi invites China President Xi for Brics 2026 summit in India

On the sidelines of the 25th Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Tianjin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and extended a formal invitation to China to participate in the Brics Summit, which India will host in 2026. The invitation, warmly received by President Xi, comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties between the two Asian giants. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, President Xi thanked Prime Minister Modi for the invitation and expressed China’s support for India’s upcoming Brics presidency.

Strengthening development partnership

During the meeting, both leaders reaffirmed that India and China are development partners rather than rivals. They emphasised that differences between the two nations should not escalate into disputes. Highlighting the significance of stable and cooperative relations for the benefit of their combined population of 2.8 billion, the leaders agreed that mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual sensitivity are essential for the growth and development of both countries. They also noted that a strong India-China relationship is important for a multipolar world and a balanced, multi-polar Asia in line with 21st-century trends.

Peace and stability on the border

Prime Minister Modi reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility along the border areas, noting that the successful disengagement last year had contributed to stability. Both leaders expressed their commitment to a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary question, stressing that it should proceed from a political perspective, keeping in mind the long-term interests of their peoples. They welcomed the progress made by their Special Representatives in recent talks and pledged continued support for these efforts.

Economic and people-to-people ties

The discussions also focussed on expanding economic and cultural cooperation. The leaders agreed on the importance of facilitating direct flights, easing visa procedures and building on initiatives such as the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and tourist visas. On trade, both sides recognised the role of India and China in stabilising global markets and highlighted the need to expand bilateral trade and investment while addressing trade imbalances. They emphasised approaching these goals from a strategic and political perspective.

Strategic autonomy and global cooperation

Prime Minister Modi highlighted that both India and China pursue strategic autonomy and their bilateral relationship should not be viewed through the lens of a third country. The leaders underlined the necessity of finding common ground on regional and global challenges, including terrorism, fair trade and multilateral cooperation. Referring to India as the elephant and China as the dragon, President Xi stressed the importance of walking together as good neighbours.

Prime Minister Modi also met with Chinese Politburo Standing Committee member Cai Qi to share his vision for enhanced bilateral relations and received assurances of China’s intent to expand exchanges and cooperation.