Xi Jinping urges stronger cooperation with India during BRICS summit in Russia
India and China have agreed to enhance their bilateral relations, suggesting a potential improvement in ties that have been strained since the 2020 border clashes. This development occurred during a meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of a BRICS summit in Russia, marking their first formal discussion in five years.
According to Chinese state media, Xi emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two nations. He stated, “It is in the fundamental interests of both countries and their people for China and India to correctly understand the historical trends and the future direction of their relationship.” He added that both sides should work on improving communication, managing differences, and supporting each other’s development goals.
Xi also highlighted the need for China and India to take on global responsibilities, setting an example for unity among developing nations and contributing to a multipolar world order and more democratic international relations.
Prime Minister Modi echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that “mutual trust” would shape India-China relations. He welcomed the recent consensus on addressing border issues, stating that the relationship between the two countries is vital not only for their people but also for regional and global peace and stability. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Modi added, “Mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity will be the guiding principles for our bilateral ties.”
While the two leaders have met briefly at international events over the past few years, their last formal meeting took place in 2019 when Xi visited Modi in Mahabalipuram. Relations took a downturn in 2020 following a deadly skirmish in the disputed Himalayan region of Ladakh, where 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese soldiers lost their lives.
Tensions have since eased somewhat, with both countries withdrawing large numbers of troops from the disputed border and agreeing to avoid sending patrols into the contested area. On Monday, India announced that an agreement on patrolling arrangements had been reached, indicating progress in resolving the military standoff.
