The Impressive TimesTianjin (China), Aug 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday evening attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit official reception in Tianjin, where he was warmly welcomed by Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan.
Upon his arrival at the reception venue, PM Modi exchanged greetings with Xi Jinping before joining other global leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, for a group photograph symbolizing unity and cooperation among member nations.
The official program of the SCO Summit will begin on September 1. Ahead of the summit, PM Modi held multiple bilateral meetings, including an important discussion with President Xi Jinping. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), both leaders emphasized strengthening people-to-people ties through direct flights, visa facilitation, and the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.
On trade and economic relations, Modi and Xi acknowledged the role of India and China as key stabilizers of global commerce. They stressed the importance of reducing the trade deficit and expanding investment ties, while agreeing that differences should not escalate into disputes.
During the meeting, PM Modi invited President Xi to attend the BRICS Summit to be hosted by India in 2026. Xi thanked him for the invitation and assured support to India’s upcoming BRICS Presidency.
PM Modi also held a bilateral meeting with Myanmar’s acting President and military chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, where discussions focused on border management, defence, development partnerships, and upcoming elections in Myanmar. Modi reiterated India’s support for a Myanmar-led peace process.
On his arrival in Tianjin a day earlier, PM Modi received a red-carpet welcome at Binhai International Airport and was greeted by senior Chinese officials. Members of the Indian diaspora warmly welcomed him at his hotel, chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram.”
The SCO Summit comes at a critical juncture for India, following the imposition of U.S. tariffs, including a 25% levy on Russian crude oil purchases by New Delhi. The summit is expected to see significant discussions on regional cooperation, security, and trade stability.
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