Dragon Meets Elephant: A New Chapter in India-China Diplomacy
Tianjin, China — August 31, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has returned to Chinese soil after seven years to attend the 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, held on August 31 and September 1. His much-anticipated bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping marks a significant step forward in efforts to stabilize and strengthen India-China relations.
A Meeting Beyond Formalities
During their 40-minute conversation on the sidelines of the summit, Modi and Xi exchanged warm greetings and discussed ways to deepen cooperation. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the relationship between India and China must be built on mutual trust, mutual respect, and sensitivity.
He acknowledged the progress achieved since the border disengagement last year, which has created a more stable environment. Modi pointed to positive developments such as the resumption of direct flights, the revival of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, and improved communication channels. Stressing the importance of cooperation, he said that the future of 2.8 billion people in both countries is intertwined, and that their partnership holds value not just for Asia but for the entire world.
President Xi responded by calling the meeting the “right choice.” He described India and China as two ancient civilizations with the potential to work together for a shared future. Using a symbolic phrase, Xi highlighted the idea of the “dragon and elephant walking together”, reflecting his vision of long-term cooperation and strategic balance.
Rebuilding Trust Amid Global Challenges
The bilateral meeting comes against the backdrop of strained ties in recent years. Relations had suffered significantly after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, which brought the two countries into one of their most difficult phases.
However, recent steps have signaled a thaw:
- Border disengagement agreements in 2024 reduced tensions along the Line of Actual Control.
- Air connectivity between the two nations was restored.
- The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resumed, symbolizing cultural and spiritual bonds.
- India reinstated tourist visas for Chinese citizens in mid-2025, improving people-to-people contact.
At the same time, India faces growing challenges on the global stage, particularly in trade relations with Western countries. The recalibration of foreign policy, including efforts to balance ties with both China and Russia, reflects India’s attempt to maintain its strategic autonomy.
Key Discussion Points
During the Modi-Xi talks, the following issues took center stage:
- Border Stability: Both leaders agreed that peace along the border is essential for progress in other areas.
- Connectivity and Pilgrimage: The return of flights and the reopening of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra were highlighted as positive milestones.
- Economic Cooperation: Conversations focused on strengthening trade ties and balancing global economic pressures.
- Global Vision: Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to multipolarity and cooperation within multilateral platforms.
- Symbolism: Xi’s metaphor of the dragon and elephant underscored the importance of long-term partnership, while Modi emphasized global welfare through cooperation.
Conclusion: A Measured Step Forward
The meeting between Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping in Tianjin reflects a cautious yet meaningful step toward rebuilding India-China ties. While deep-rooted strategic competition and geopolitical differences remain, the dialogue signals a readiness to explore cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
As the SCO Summit continues, the world watches closely to see if this spirit of dialogue can pave the way for a more stable and balanced relationship in Asia. For now, the dragon and elephant appear ready to move forward together—carefully, but with renewed intent.
Leave a Reply