Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit China later this month for the first time in over seven years, signaling a shift in diplomatic ties as India’s relationship with the U.S. faces growing strain. According to a government source, Modi will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin starting August 31. This visit comes as former U.S. President Donald Trump imposes steep tariffs on Indian imports and criticizes India’s continued oil trade with Russia.
India’s ties with China soured after a 2020 border clash, but recent talks between Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping have eased tensions. Modi’s visit is expected to further mend relations, especially as India seeks alternatives amid friction with the U.S.
Meanwhile, India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is in Russia to discuss oil imports and defense cooperation, including pending deliveries of the S-400 air defense system. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar is also expected to visit Russia soon.
Trump has threatened an additional 10% tariff on BRICS members, accusing them of opposing U.S. interests. According to Indian officials, Trump’s tariffs could impact $64 billion in Indian exports, though the broader economy may remain stable due to exports forming a small part of GDP. The Reserve Bank of India has kept its growth projection at 6.5% despite these external challenges.
Due to Tariffs from US, India suspends Russian oil imports amid looming Trump tariffs
