Modi Returns to Beijing Amid Rising Trade Tensions
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make his first official visit to China in over seven years to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin. His appearance comes at a critical moment as India reevaluates its diplomatic and economic alliances amid escalating fallout with its longtime partner, the United States.
U.S. Tariffs Trigger Diplomatic Realignment
The White House, under President Trump, recently doubled tariffs on Indian exports—bringing the total duty to a steep 50%—in response to India’s ongoing purchase of Russian oil. The move has severely disrupted India’s trade, affecting labor-intensive sectors like textiles, jewelry, and marine products, and marked a sharp downturn in U.S.–India relations.
Strengthening Ties with China and Russia
At the SCO summit, Modi will meet both Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. These meetings symbolize India’s strategic pivot toward deeper engagement with its neighbors, reinforcing power diversification amid U.S. economic pressure.
During his tour, Modi has already secured major investment commitments from Japan—nearly $68 billion over the next decade—demonstrating his effort to offset the tariff blow and maintain economic momentum.
A Thaw in India–China Relations
India and China have recently made progress in easing tensions. Notable steps include the resumption of direct flights, renewed border patrol dialogues, and restored diplomatic engagement following the 2020 Galwan clash. Modi’s summit discussions with Xi could further consolidate this rapprochement, though core strategic disagreements remain unresolved.
Strategic Implications: Multipolarity on the Rise
This diplomatic pivot underscores India’s commitment to a more independent, multipolar foreign policy. By balancing its engagements with China and Russia alongside deepening ties with Japan, India sends a clear signal to Washington: economic autonomy and diversified partnerships are central to its national strategy.
Looking Ahead
Modi’s meetings with Xi and Putin are more than ceremonial—they are strategic decisions aimed at redefining India’s place in a dynamic global order. With U.S. tariffs pressuring trade and trust waning, the SCO summit offers India an opportunity to secure its interests, reinforce regional partnerships, and assert its evolving diplomatic posture.
