New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on October 23 in Kazan, Russia, marking the first high-level meeting between the two leaders since the 2020 Galwan conflict. The meeting, which was months in the making, signifies a potential turning point in India-China relations. Here’s the inside story of how this meeting came about and why it holds significance for both nations.
1. Russia’s Role in Facilitating the Meeting
The meeting between Modi and Xi in Kazan was made possible largely due to Russia’s diplomatic efforts. Over the past few months, Russia has been working behind the scenes to bring the two countries together, aiming to mend the relations strained by the 2020 border clashes in Galwan. Russia’s objective was to promote regional stability by encouraging dialogue between the two Asian powers.
2. Progress at BRICS Meetings
During various BRICS meetings, Russia urged both India and China to resolve their differences. Moscow stressed that cooperation between the two largest Asian economies is crucial for the stability of the region. The BRICS platform became a key space for these efforts, which eventually led to the Kazan meeting between Modi and Xi.
3. Modi’s Initiative After Re-election
After securing a third term in office, Prime Minister Modi made it clear that improving ties with China was a priority. The Indian government recognized that for economic and regional interests, re-engaging with China was necessary. This approach led to increased diplomatic engagement, starting with a July meeting between Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Astana.
4. Final Preparations in Laos and Russia
The decision for Modi and Xi to meet in Kazan was finalized after discussions between both nations’ diplomats. On July 25, Indian and Chinese foreign ministers met in Laos, where they agreed on the importance of the leaders meeting face-to-face. The process was concluded on September 12, when India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Russia to finalize the details of the Kazan meeting.
Positive Atmosphere Leading to the Kazan Meeting
1. China’s Appointment of a New Ambassador
Ahead of the Kazan meeting, China sent a new ambassador, Xu Feihong, to India in May 2024, who played an active role in fostering positive relations. Xu’s positive statements about India indicated China’s desire to approach bilateral ties with a fresh perspective, helping to create a favorable atmosphere for the leaders’ summit.
2. Jaishankar’s Statement on the Galwan Conflict
Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that more than 75% of the border issues following the Galwan conflict had been resolved. His remarks were key in creating a stable and positive environment for the Kazan meeting.
3. Ajit Doval’s Firm Yet Open Stance
During pre-summit discussions, India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval made it clear to the Chinese side that peace and stability along the border were essential for normalizing relations. His firm stance, coupled with India’s openness to dialogue, helped set the stage for the successful meeting in Kazan.
4. Positive Media Coverage in China
In the lead-up to the meeting, Chinese media and government officials made several positive statements about India. This effort was aimed at improving relations at both the public and diplomatic levels, with Chinese media praising India’s economic progress and diplomatic influence.
5. Easing of Trade and Visa Restrictions
Both nations also took steps to ease restrictions on visas and trade, encouraging business and cultural exchanges. This demonstrated a mutual commitment to improving bilateral ties, further strengthening the groundwork for the leaders’ meeting.
Now that the long-awaited Kazan summit has taken place, it remains to be seen how this historic meeting will shape the future of India-China relations and impact regional stability.
