After a gap of seven years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, marking a significant diplomatic milestone. The PM arrived on Saturday, August 30, 2025, and was warmly received with a grand red carpet welcome at the airport, signaling the importance of this historic visit. His presence in China comes at a time of shifting global dynamics, particularly amid the economic challenges posed by President Trump’s trade policies.
Grand Welcome in China
As PM Modi stepped off the plane, he was greeted with immense enthusiasm and grandeur. This marks a momentous occasion, as it is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to China in seven years. During his stay, PM Modi will remain in China until September 1, participating in the highly anticipated SCO summit and holding crucial bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The red carpet reception underscores the significance of Modi’s visit, both in terms of bilateral ties and broader regional cooperation.
Landed in Tianjin, China. Looking forward to deliberations at the sco summit and meeting Various World Leaders. pic.twitter.com/gbceynmfo
– Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 30, 2025
Bilateral Talks with Jinping & Putin
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi is expected to engage in high-level discussions with Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, focusing on strengthening relations between India, China, and Russia. With China-India relations looking for a reset, this visit comes at an opportune time. The two leaders are set to discuss a range of issues, including trade, regional security, and economic cooperation.
In addition to his talks with Xi Jinping, PM Modi will also hold separate talks with Russian President Putin, highlighting the evolving political landscape. The meeting with Putin is expected to focus on areas of mutual interest, including defense, energy, and regional stability.
#Watch Prime Minister Narendra Modi Arrives in Tianjin, China. He will attend the sco summit here.
(VIDEO: ANI/DD) pic.twitter.com/dwnrhglt95
– ANI (@ani) August 30, 2025
Impact of the Visit Amid Economic Challenges
The visit is taking place against the backdrop of global economic uncertainty, exacerbated by President Trump’s decision to impose a 50% tariff on India, which has had ripple effects on international trade and politics. With this geopolitical context in mind, PM Modi’s diplomatic efforts aim to fortify India’s standing in global politics and foster cooperation between key Asian powers.
The visit to China is not only about strengthening diplomatic ties but also about engaging with a crucial partner in shaping a stable, secure, and prosperous Asia. Amid global trade tensions, the visit aims to recalibrate India’s position in the global marketplace and ensure a stable geopolitical environment.
Expectations for the SCO Summit
The SCO summit will take place in China from August 31 to September 1, 2025, and will host leaders from over 20 countries. The summit is expected to address key issues, including regional security, economic development, and cooperation on counterterrorism efforts. PM Modi’s participation in this summit is expected to bolster India’s strategic role in the region.
The Indian Prime Minister had last met Xi Jinping in October 2024 during the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, where the two leaders discussed issues of mutual concern, including regional peace and economic growth. This meeting, along with the SCO summit, will set the stage for future collaboration between the two countries.
PM Modi’s Confidence Ahead of the Visit
Before departing for Japan and China, PM Modi expressed confidence that his visits would advance India’s national interests. In his statement on August 28, 2025, he said:
“I am confident that my trips to Japan and China will carry forward our national interests and priorities. This journey will contribute to the creation of meaningful cooperation in regional and global peace, security, and continuous development.”
This visit is a crucial step in India’s diplomatic strategy, aiming to foster collaboration with key global players while also addressing regional issues that impact security and economic growth.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s visit to China is a landmark moment in India-China relations, bringing a renewed focus on diplomatic engagement between the two nations. The SCO summit will serve as a platform to discuss pressing issues facing the region and the world. As India strengthens its ties with China and Russia, this visit is expected to pave the way for greater cooperation in the areas of trade, security, and regional development.
