The Long Route of Dialogue and Engagement Between Modi and Xi after the Galwan Standoff

On October 23, 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, marking a turning point in relations between the two nations. This meeting is particularly noteworthy given the historical context of India-China relations, strained since the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020 (15-16 June 2020), where casualties on both sides deepened distrust. The recent military and diplomatic talks related to the troops patrolling agreement signal a willingness to move beyond past grievances and foster a constructive dialogue that could reshape not only bilateral ties but also the dynamics of global geopolitics. India and China share a borderline of 3,488 kilometres. 

In recent years, India and China have been at the forefront of international discussions concerning development and stability, especially as representatives of the Global South. Both countries, each boasting populations of approximately 1.4 billion (India overtook China in April 2024), play crucial roles in shaping economic and political landscapes. As large developing nations, their partnership is essential for mutual benefit and for addressing global challenges, including climate change, economic inequality, and regional security. President Xi’s assertion that “development is now the biggest shared goal” resonates strongly with Modi’s vision for India, positioning both leaders to view each other as partners rather than competitors.

The backdrop of increasing global distrust among major powers further underscores the importance of this meeting. The world has seen a rise in geopolitical tensions, particularly in areas like trade, technology, and military postures. In such a context, India and China’s ability to maintain a stable and amicable relationship could counterbalance rising protectionism and unilateralism in international relations. By prioritising communication and cooperation, both nations can model a new paradigm of engagement that prioritises diplomacy over conflict.

The BRICS platform offers a vital space for emerging economies to advocate for a multipolar world by decentralising power outside Western-dominated global institutions. Modi’s commitment to support China’s presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and enhance cooperation within BRICS signals a readiness to collaborate on issues that matter to the Global South, such as sustainable development and economic recovery. The emphasis on multipolarity reflects a broader desire among developing nations to assert their agency in global affairs, challenging the existing power structures that have long favoured a select few. 

During the meeting, both leaders welcomed the recent agreement on disengagement and the ongoing resolution of border issues, recognising that proper management of differences is vital to maintaining peace and tranquillity. Since the early 1990s, many agreements for peace and tranquillity and confidence-building measures have been signed by both countries. Utilising the Special Representatives mechanism to oversee these discussions illustrates a pragmatic approach to conflict resolution. It is necessary to rebuild trust, indicating a mutual understanding that stability in the border areas is crucial for the overall health of the bilateral relationship. A proactive approach is essential for India and China, as well as regional stability in Asia, where tensions can quickly escalate and impact the global scenario.

The implications of this meeting extend beyond bilateral relations. As India and China work to untangle their complex relationship, they must also consider the influence of other global powers, particularly the United States and its allies. The U.S. has often sought to counter China’s rise, which can lead to increased tensions in the region and beyond. For India, balancing its relationship with the U.S. while engaging with China is a diplomatic ‘tightrope’ that requires careful manoeuvring. The willingness of both leaders to engage in dialogue serves as a reminder that diplomacy remains a vital tool in addressing global challenges.

In this context, the discussions at Kazan reflect a broader trend towards multilateralism in addressing pressing global issues. The leaders’ agreement to strengthen communication and cooperation in various multilateral forums highlights their recognition of shared interests. In a world increasingly characterised by division and competition, their commitment to collaboration is a counter-narrative, suggesting that common ground can be found even among nations that have historical disputes.

The potential for economic collaboration is another significant aspect of this meeting. Both China and India are engines of growth in their respective regions, and cooperation could yield substantial benefits. Joint trade, technology, and infrastructure initiatives can help drive economic recovery, particularly in the post-pandemic context. This partnership could facilitate investment flows and stimulate economic activity, benefiting India, China, their neighbours, and the broader global community. 

As they progress, the relations between India and China will require ongoing dialogue and strategic engagement. The leaders acknowledged the need to prevent specific disagreements from impacting their overall equation, a recognition that is crucial for sustainable peace. Both nations must view their ties through a long-term lens, focusing on shared goals rather than allowing historical grievances to dictate the present and future.

To sum up, the Modi-Xi meeting at the BRICS Summit in Kazan is a crucial step towards repairing and strengthening the bilateral relations. The commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect reflects a pragmatic approach essential for two states in a fast-evolving geopolitical landscape. As major players in the Global South, their ability to collaborate can serve as a beacon of hope for a multipolar world, demonstrating that diplomacy and dialogue can prevail even in times of conflict. This meeting holds significance for the two nations and the future of international relations, illustrating the potential for cooperation among developing countries in addressing shared needs and challenges.qs