New Delhi: A planned meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in New Delhi is drawing attention as the two countries look to strengthen communication and manage differences in their bilateral relationship.
China’s Ambassador to India Xu Feihong said Beijing is prepared to work with New Delhi under the strategic direction of Modi and Xi. He confirmed that arrangements were underway for a bilateral meeting between the two leaders during the 18th BRICS Summit.
In a post on X, Xu said the two sides would focus on improving communication, expanding cooperation and addressing outstanding differences through dialogue. He also emphasised the importance of viewing India-China relations from a long-term and strategic perspective.
Xi Jinping’s visit marks his return to India after nearly seven years. The Chinese president travelled to New Delhi at Prime Minister Modi’s invitation to attend the BRICS Summit being hosted by India on September 12 and 13.
The upcoming Modi-Xi engagement will be their third consecutive annual meeting. The leaders previously met in Kazan and Tianjin, signalling a gradual effort to maintain high-level communication between the two countries.
India-China relations faced a major setback following the deadly military confrontation in the Galwan Valley in 2020. Tensions along the border subsequently affected diplomatic and economic ties. In recent years, however, contacts between the leadership of both countries have resumed, including meetings between Modi and Xi.
Xi is expected to arrive in New Delhi at around 12:25 pm IST. His delegation includes senior Chinese officials, including Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China, and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
The bilateral meeting between Modi and Xi is scheduled for 5:45 pm on Saturday. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning had earlier described the meeting as part of continued high-level engagement between the two countries.
The discussions are expected to provide an opportunity for both sides to review bilateral relations, strengthen communication and address areas of disagreement while exploring possibilities for greater cooperation.
India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, bringing together leaders from the expanded BRICS grouping for discussions on a range of international and economic issues.
