Reconciliation Announcement Between China and India: Xi and Modi Find a Solution to Border Disputes

In a significant step towards improving relations between China and India, Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged during a meeting held in Tianjin, China, yesterday, to work on resolving ongoing border disputes and enhancing bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

This visit marks Modi's first trip to China since relations between the two nations deteriorated sharply following the deadly clashes between Chinese and Indian soldiers at the border in 2020.

Modi's visit comes as part of India's membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which was founded by China and is considered an important platform for political, economic, and security cooperation among countries in the region.

In his opening remarks, Modi praised the development of relations between the two countries, noting that "relations with China have moved in a purposeful direction" and that there is a "peaceful environment at the border after disengagement."

He added that "peace and calm in border areas are essential for the continued development of bilateral relations."

For his part, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed hope that the Tianjin meeting would "raise the level" of bilateral relations between the two countries and enhance the "sustainable, healthy, and stable development" of China-India relations.

Xi emphasized that both sides should not "allow the border issue to define their relationship entirely," pointing out that economic development should be the main priority in future relations between the two countries.

The Chinese president explained: "As long as China and India remain committed to a genuine partnership rather than rivalry, focusing on providing development opportunities instead of threats, the relations between the two countries will flourish and advance steadily."

It is worth noting that these meetings coincide with the resumption of direct flights between India and China after a five-year hiatus, reflecting a return to mobility and cooperation between the two countries in various fields.

On the sidelines of the summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin, who arrived in Tianjin yesterday, is expected to meet with Xi and Modi to discuss regional and global issues.