Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for China on Saturday to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit after completing his visit to Japan. This is his first trip there in seven years and comes at a highly strategic moment in global politics. In this (SCO) Summit, leaders including China’s Xi Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir Putin will gather.Modi’s participation shows that India wants to stay active in Eurasian groups while managing relations with rival countries.
The visit is significant because it coincides with rising U.S. tariffs on Indian exports up to 50% on some goods which has increased pressure on New Delhi’s economy. Analysts believe Modi’s presence in China shows India’s readiness to keep multiple diplomatic doors open, especially at a time when global alliances are shifting.
At the summit, discussions are expected on regional security, counterterrorism, energy cooperation, and trade connectivity. India’s engagement is also about preventing China–Russia dominance in the forum and ensuring its own strategic relevance. Though India is cautious about Beijing, Modi’s visit shows a practical approach, work together where interests match, compete when needed, and protect India’s sovereignty.
