China has stated that India and China should approach their differences with proper handling and cultivate bilateral relations with a long-term strategic perspective. This call comes as President Xi Jinping is set to visit New Delhi for the BRICS summit, which will take place on September 12 and 13, 2026, marking his first trip to India in nearly seven years.

During this visit, Xi will engage in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a continuation of their recent interactions. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning remarked that this meeting would be the third consecutive year in which the two leaders have convened, following their encounters in Kazan and Tianjin.

Mao highlighted the importance of fostering effective communication and cooperation between the two nations. She emphasized that both countries should act as ‘friends enjoying good neighbourliness and partners helping each other,’ indicating an intent to resolve outstanding issues amicably.

Significance of the BRICS Summit

Mao underscored the role of the BRICS summit, asserting that this forum has evolved into a vital platform for cooperation among emerging markets and developing countries. She noted that the grouping has maintained a commitment to a spirit of openness, inclusivity, and mutual benefit since its inception.

According to Mao, BRICS champions multilateralism and aims for fairness and common development, now serving as ‘a real force standing at the forefront of the Global South.’ With China’s active involvement in BRICS, the nation is keen to leverage this opportunity to strengthen ties with member states.

In the context of ongoing global conflicts, including the Iran-US tensions and the war in Ukraine, Mao expressed readiness to collaborate with BRICS nations to facilitate dialogue and negotiate peaceful solutions. This aligns with India’s role as the current chair of BRICS, emphasising cooperative practices in an increasingly fragmented international landscape.

Background of India-China Relations

Xi’s forthcoming visit occurs against the backdrop of efforts to normalise relations between India and China. The relationship between the two countries has been strained since the 2020 standoff in Eastern Ladakh. Recently, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi engaged in substantial discussions concerning boundary issues and measures to enhance bilateral relations.

During an earlier summit in August 2026, both nations reached an eight-point consensus, initiating discussions on a proposed ‘Early and Substantial Harvest’ regarding boundary delimitation and management. This development indicates a mutual desire to advance the dialogue framework for addressing longstanding challenges between the neighbours.

Historically, Xi’s past visits to India include an informal summit in Mamallapuram in 2019 and participation in the BRICS summit in Goa in 2016. His initial visit occurred in September 2014 during a period marked by extensive discussions between Xi and Modi as both leaders began their first terms. These interactions may provide context for interpreting the outcomes of the upcoming Modi-Xi meeting.

As India prepares for the 18th BRICS Summit, the dynamics of the meeting between Xi and Modi are anticipated to signal potential future directions for India-China relations, as both leaders are keen to reinforce cooperation in a challenging global landscape.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share