Beijing seeks strategic cooperation during crucial bilateral summit talks
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will engage in crucial bilateral discussions today during the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Xi lands in the Indian capital on Saturday to attend the two-day event, marking his first trip to India in nearly seven years. Ahead of these talks, Beijing is strongly advocating for improved regional harmony and long-term friendship.
Promoting good neighbourliness
Chinese officials are setting a conciliatory tone for the upcoming summit. Ambassador Xu Feihong emphasized that both nations need to manage their differences with careful strategic planning. He noted that New Delhi and Beijing should strive to be mutually supportive partners. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reinforced this perspective, stating that the two countries must improve communication and handle their relationship with long-term vision.
Rebuilding diplomatic ties
Diplomatic relations between the two Asian giants have remained delicate since the deadly border skirmishes at Galwan Valley in 2020. This weekend’s meeting represents continued efforts by both administrations to stabilize their engagement. Modi and Xi are now meeting for the third consecutive year, following their previous discussions in Kazan and Tianjin. Xi’s previous visit to India occurred in 2019 during an informal summit in Mamallapuram, which followed his 2016 trip to Goa.
India serves as the current chair for the summit taking place on September 12 and 13. Chinese leadership views the bloc as a powerful representative force for the Global South. Mao Ning highlighted that member countries must work together to mediate ongoing international conflicts, specifically pointing to the Russia-Ukraine war and Iran-US tensions. China aims to use this platform to promote peaceful negotiations and restore global market stability.
