Historic Modi-Xi Meeting in Kazan Signals New Chapter in India-China Relations

During a landmark meeting on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit, Indian Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the need for collaboration. This marks the leaders' first formal interaction in five years, indicating potential shifts in diplomatic and trade relations between the nations.

In a significant development, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the periphery of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia. The meeting, hailed as pivotal by foreign affairs expert Robinder Nath Sachdev, indicates an emerging diplomatic thaw, with both leaders committing to engage in dialogue.

This event marks a noteworthy milestone as it is the first formal interaction between Modi and Xi in five years. The meeting follows an agreement on resuming regular patrolling along the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, signaling a mutual acknowledgment of the need for cooperation. According to Sachdev, China's willingness to ensure smooth proceedings at the BRICS summit without Indian opposition is a key factor in this diplomatic engagement.

The implications of this meeting stretch beyond immediate bilateral interests, with Sachdev emphasizing its potential geopolitical ramifications. It conveys a message to Western powers that India and China can potentially transition from adversaries to cooperative partners, an outcome with significant global impact. Further discussions on enhancing trade balance and maintaining LAC peace are anticipated outcomes from this meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)