India signals shift towards Asian unity in Xi talks: PM Modi stresses ‘mutual respect and sensitivity’

Tianjin: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday told Chinese President Xi Jinping that India is committed to strengthening relations with China on the basis of mutual trust, respect and sensitivity, as the two leaders held wide-ranging talks aimed at recalibrating bilateral ties.

In his televised opening remarks, Modi underlined that the welfare of 2.8 billion people is closely linked to stronger cooperation between India and China.

The prime minister noted that peace and stability have prevailed along the border following last year’s disengagement process. He also highlighted the resumption of direct flights and the reopening of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as positive signs of normalisation.

“There was consent between our Special Representatives on border management,” he said, referring to the framework that both countries use to address boundary-related issues.

“We are committed to take forward our cooperation based on mutual trust, respect and sensitivity,” Modi emphasised.

Congratulating Xi on China’s successful presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Modi also underscored India’s readiness to work together within the Eurasian framework.

This is Modi’s first visit to China in seven years. He arrived in Tianjin on Saturday for the two-day trip to attend the SCO summit.