Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to participate in the 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China. This visit, occurring on August 31st and September 1st, marks a significant diplomatic opportunity for India. Foreign Ministry Secretary (West) Tanmay Lal confirmed Modi’s attendance at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. The summit will include President Xi, President Putin, and leaders from Central Asia, South Asia, West Asia, and South-East Asia. The summit presents Modi’s first public appearance with Xi and Putin since the BRICS summit held earlier. Diplomatic circles are abuzz with the potential for trilateral talks between India, China, and Russia. The summit is strategically important for China, as it aims to foster solidarity among Global South nations, provide a stage for Russia, and underscore its growing global influence. The summit is particularly vital for India, occurring as both nations work to improve their relationship after the 2020 border disputes. Analysts believe the summit could be an appropriate time to initiate measures aimed at restoring trust, potentially addressing border tensions and boosting trade. The event in Tianjin is viewed as symbolizing the shift towards a multipolar world, where India’s role grows in significance.
