PM Modi Attends SCO Summit in Tianjin, Holds Bilateral Talks with Xi and Putin

Tianjin, Sept 2025 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Tianjin to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, marking an important diplomatic engagement with regional powers. The summit brings together key leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, underscoring the growing significance of multilateral cooperation in times of global uncertainty.

The SCO Summit will primarily address the “three evils” of terrorism, separatism, and extremism—issues central to the organization since its inception. An agreement signing ceremony and a joint leaders’ statement are scheduled for later today.

This visit is particularly significant as it is PM Modi’s first trip to China in seven years. It comes at a time when India and China are cautiously rebuilding their relationship following years of border tensions. Ahead of the summit, Modi and Xi held a bilateral meeting on Sunday, their first in nearly ten months.

During the talks, both leaders discussed measures to stabilize ties and enhance cooperation. Sources indicate they reached an understanding on new patrolling protocols along the 3,500-kilometer Line of Actual Control (LAC). This development signals progress after four years of heightened tensions, including the prolonged standoff along the border.

The meeting also focused on strengthening economic collaboration and addressing regional security challenges. Officials said it sought to build on the momentum of their last interaction at the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in 2024.

Later today, Modi is expected to hold another bilateral meeting with President Putin. Despite global tensions, India and Russia continue to share a strong strategic and energy partnership. The meeting is likely to reaffirm cooperation in defense, energy, and technology.

By sharing the stage with Xi and Putin at the SCO, PM Modi is not only highlighting India’s role in regional diplomacy but also balancing its relationships with both powers amid shifting global alignments.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to return to India tonight, concluding what officials have described as a high-stakes and outcome-oriented diplomatic visit.

Team Maverick.