Modi and Xi to Meet at BRICS Summit Amid Trade, Border Discussions
Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the upcoming BRICS summit in India for his first visit since 2019. His meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seen as a key test of improving relations between Asia's two largest economies following years of tension after deadly border clashes in 2020. Despite progress, including resumed flights and cross-border exchanges, the disputed Himalayan border remains a major political issue. Recent high-level talks have led to some confidence-building measures but tensions persist, as seen by recent Chinese encroachments into Indian territory. Analysts view this meeting as an opportunity for further diplomatic engagement amid India's broader strategic balancing act with global powers. India is also strengthening ties within the BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) blocs while managing its relationship with China. The summit will highlight New Delhi’s efforts to maintain a multi-polar foreign policy, especially in light of strained relations with the U.S.
Topics: border disputes BRICS summit China-India relations Narendra Modi Xi Jinping