China Seeks Long-Term India Ties Before Modi-Xi Meet
China has called for India-China relations to be handled from a “long-term perspective” as President Xi Jinping arrives in New Delhi for the BRICS Summit, with a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected on the sidelines of the gathering.
China Calls for Stable Long-Term India Relations
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing wanted both countries to follow the strategic guidance provided by Modi and Xi, increase communication and expand cooperation.
She said China wanted the two Asian powers to manage their differences appropriately while becoming good neighbours and partners that contribute to each other’s development.
The comments underline Beijing’s position that unresolved disputes, including the boundary question, should be managed without allowing them to dominate the entire bilateral relationship.
Modi-Xi Meeting Comes Amid Improving Ties
The expected New Delhi meeting follows Modi and Xi’s engagements in Kazan during the 2024 BRICS Summit and at the SCO Summit in Tianjin in 2025.
Relations had deteriorated sharply following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash but have gradually improved through diplomatic and military negotiations.
Recent developments include the resumption of direct flights, reopening of border trade and further discussions on maintaining peace along the Line of Actual Control. The boundary dispute itself, however, remains unresolved.
China Backs Dialogue Through BRICS
Beijing also said it would use the BRICS Summit to promote dialogue and negotiated solutions to international conflicts.
Xi is expected to discuss the international situation, expansion of BRICS cooperation and deeper practical collaboration with other leaders.
The summit comes amid significant geopolitical tensions, including conflicts affecting energy markets and global supply chains, giving India and China another platform to test whether their improving diplomatic engagement can translate into more stable bilateral relations.
