Background on Key Figures and Their Relevance
The recent developments in international relations have seen China and India moving closer together, with Russian President Vladimir Putin expressing support for this growing alliance. This shift is partly due to the trade tensions initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, which have affected India’s relationship with the United States.
Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi: Strengthening Ties
At the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized their countries’ partnership rather than rivalry. This meeting marked Modi’s first visit to China in seven years, highlighting the significance of this diplomatic development.
Putin’s Support and the SCO’s Alternative to NATO
Russian President Vladimir Putin attended the SCO summit and defended Russia’s actions in Ukraine, blaming Western countries for provoking the ongoing conflict. He described the crisis as a result of a Ukrainian coup supported by Western nations and their attempts to bring Ukraine into the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
Key Takeaways from the SCO Summit
- Criticism of the US and Western Nations: Xi Jinping criticized certain countries’ intimidating behavior, indirectly referring to the United States. He called for opposing Cold War mentality and advocated for multilateralism, the United Nations, and the World Trade Organization.
- Promoting a Multipolar and Inclusive Global Order: Xi Jinping emphasized the need for a fair and ordered multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization. He aims to establish a more just and reasonable governance system.
- New Development Bank Proposal: Xi Jinping proposed the creation of a new development bank by the SCO, which would be a significant step towards developing an alternative payment system or common currency to bypass the U.S. dollar.
- Strengthening Cooperation: China will provide $280 million in gratis aid and $1.4 billion in loans to an SCO bank consortium this year. Additionally, China plans to build an AI cooperation center for SCO countries and invite them to participate in its lunar research station.
- Improving Commercial Ties: Modi and Xi discussed enhancing commercial relations between their countries amid global trade uncertainty.
Contextualizing the China-India Rapprochement
The diplomatic warming between China and India has occurred largely due to the U.S.-initiated trade war. Historically, India had been a significant ally of the United States. However, after being hit with a 50% tariff increase by Trump, India has sought to strengthen its ties with other nations, including China.
