• Modi and Xi pledge to improve bilateral ties and resolve border differences during the SCO summit in Tianjin.
• The meeting comes in the wake of the US imposing 50% tariffs on Indian goods related to Russian oil purchases.
• Both leaders emphasize viewing each other as partners, not rivals, to enhance economic cooperation.
• Putin's participation highlights the geopolitical dynamics and solidarity among non-Western countries at the summit.
• The SCO is seen as a platform for advancing cooperation and addressing shared challenges among its member states.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, where they committed to improving bilateral ties and focused on resolving long-standing border issues. Modi, in his remarks, emphasized that relations have moved "in a meaningful direction" and stressed the importance of a peaceful atmosphere at the borders following a military standoff that had persisted since 2020, according to Dawn and Los Angeles Times.

During their discussions, both leaders acknowledged the negative impact of the recent US tariffs on India, suggesting a strategic pivot towards enhanced cooperation as a response. Modi stated that India is committed to progressing relations based on mutual respect and trust, projecting a united front against Western pressures, as highlighted by Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.

Additionally, Xi underscored the idea that border issues should not overshadow the overall relationship between the two countries. Both leaders agreed to focus on economic cooperation as the primary objective moving forward, underpinning their discussions on trade and mutual development opportunities, according to NPR and Reuters.

The meeting at the SCO summit, which saw participation from over 20 leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin, is viewed as significant for re-establishing China's role amidst rising geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding the challenges posed by Western powers. Putin's attendance affirmed the growing nexus between China and Russia as they promote a multipolar world order, reflected in statements from Times of India and Africanews.

Modi remarked that the SCO provides an opportunity for India amid the challenges from US tariffs, asserting that connectivity is vital for boosting trade and fostering growth and trust amongst member nations. This sentiment reaffirms India's broader strategy to navigate international relations and enhance multilateral engagements, as noted by Anadolu Agency.