Modi’s Visit to China: A Strategic Signal Amid Tensions with the U.S

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China sends a strong diplomatic message — it’s not just about participating in a multilateral forum, but also about signalling that India and China can engage despite deep-rooted mistrust. The move comes at a time when India is preparing to respond firmly to U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policies and anti-India stance.

 

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s visit to Russia, coinciding with Trump’s special measures against India, was another indicator of New Delhi’s readiness to diversify its strategic partnerships. The combination of Modi’s China trip and Doval’s Moscow visit underlines India’s determination to strengthen ties with both Russia and China, even as it counters U.S. pressure.

 

Diplomatic observers believe this approach is also meant to remind Trump that India will not tolerate unilateral dictates. By engaging with China on equal terms, India is making it clear that it will not be cornered into submission, especially when Washington’s actions threaten its economic and strategic autonomy.

 

However, experts caution against overestimating China’s willingness to align with India’s interests. While Beijing may seek closer ties to counter U.S. influence, it continues to act against India’s core concerns — whether by shielding Pakistan in global forums or making provocative statements on Arunachal Pradesh and Kashmir.

 

Past incidents, such as China’s reluctance to support India during the Operation Sindhu terror attacks and its obstruction in listing Pakistan-based terrorists at the UN, serve as reminders of Beijing’s unreliability. Therefore, while engaging with China is strategically prudent, India must remain cautious and avoid depending too heavily on Beijing.

 

The SCO summit will also be an opportunity for Modi to press India’s position on regional security, trade, and counterterrorism, while testing whether China is willing to move towards a relationship based on mutual respect and equality.

 

Ultimately, analysts stress that India’s outreach to China should be balanced with vigilance. New Delhi must ensure that its engagement serves Indian interests without compromising sovereignty, especially in the face of continuing border disputes and China’s growing strategic alignment with Pakistan.