With Economy Surging, India Plays Its Own Game with China

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Tianjin for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit has sparked speculation about a possible 'reset' in India-China ties. But such assumptions miss the essence of the trip. Modi attended a multilateral forum, not a bilateral summit with China.

India's entry into the SCO itself was shaped by Moscow's support, while Beijing pushed for Pakistan's inclusion. The dynamics have always been complex, with overlapping but often conflicting priorities.

Last month, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was in Delhi. While the official reason was the special representatives' dialogue, he spent considerable time discussing trade and economic concerns. It was during this visit that he invited Modi for the SCO meet, fuelling speculation of a reset in ties.

China's Economic Troubles

China today finds itself under pressure. Its real estate sector is reeling, youth unemployment is rising, and falling growth rates. With the United States imposing tariffs under Donald Trump, Beijing is hunting for new markets. India, clocking a robust 7.8% growth in the first quarter of 2025, naturally draws attention.

But for New Delhi, the picture is very different. After visiting Delhi, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi flew straight to Islamabad, reaffirming Beijing's role as Pakistan's "all-weather friend." China continues to shield Pakistan at global forums, most recently by blocking India's bid to blacklist The Resistance Front (TRF) at the UN Security Council. Such actions underline Beijing's double standards.

Strategic and Security Concerns

Beyond economics, India's concerns lie in the security realm. China is building massive dams on the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, threatening water flows into the Brahmaputra. Its rail network in Tibet steadily inches closer to India's borders. Reports of Chinese involvement in developing Bangladesh's Lalmonirhat Air Force base near the Siliguri Corridor - India's critical 'chicken's neck' - poses a direct strategic challenge.

At the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the situation is far from settled. Though some disengagement has taken place in eastern Ladakh, around 50,000-60,000 troops remain deployed on both sides. China has also repeatedly blocked UN sanctions against Pakistan-backed terrorists, including senior figures from Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

No Space for Illusions

Given this backdrop, loose talk of a 'reset' or a revival of 'Hindi-Chini bhai bhai' is misplaced. Modi's participation at the SCO summit must be seen through the lens of India's own interests - strengthening its role in multilateral platforms while keeping a close watch on Beijing's moves.

China has never been, and is unlikely to ever become, a trustworthy neighbour. India, buoyed by its economic surge, is playing its own game - one defined not by wishful slogans, but by hard realities of power, security, and national interest.