In a significant diplomatic event, Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to visit India for the 18th BRICS Summit, scheduled to take place in New Delhi on September 12-13. This marks Xi’s first visit to India in nearly seven years and his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to attract considerable attention. The visit comes at a critical time as both nations strive to mend relations that were severely strained following a military standoff in 2020 along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh. The deadly clash in Galwan Valley in June 2020, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and at least four Chinese troops, had a profound impact on bilateral relations.
Tensions began to ease after an agreement was reached between India and China in October 2024, concerning disengagement at key areas such as Depsang and Demchok. Modi and Xi’s meeting at the BRICS summit in Kazan played a pivotal role in this development, as they agreed to revive mechanisms aimed at addressing the ongoing border dispute and rebuilding bilateral ties. Progress has been seen since then, with both countries resuming direct flights, reinstating the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and maintaining diplomatic and military dialogues to ensure peace along the border.
August saw further developments with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi agreeing on an eight-point consensus. This consensus included the establishment of additional military meeting points, the creation of new hotline communication channels, and the reopening of three designated border trading points. Moreover, a corps commander-level meeting took place in the eastern sector on September 6, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain regional stability.
Despite these positive steps, India continues to emphasize that lasting peace and tranquillity along the border are crucial for fully normalizing relations between the two nations. The discussions between Xi and Modi during the BRICS summit are expected to shed light on how both sides intend to advance the stabilization process while tackling the unresolved boundary issues. The summit will also serve as a platform for leaders to engage in discussions on global political and economic matters, including conflicts, economic cooperation, and potential reforms to multilateral institutions.
