Chit-Chat & A Hug: Modi, Xi, Putin Share Warmth Ahead of Key Bilateral at SCO Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin were seen sharing a friendly moment as they chatted and posed for photographs at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China. The convivial exchange set the tone for the high-profile gathering, with Modi and Putin even sharing a handshake followed by a warm embrace on the sidelines of the event. Modi later described his meeting with the Russian leader as “always a delight,” posting pictures of their interaction on social media as he prepared for scheduled bilateral talks with Putin later in the day.

The summit has underscored the prominence of the SCO as a crucial forum for regional cooperation, drawing attention to diplomatic camaraderie among world leaders. “Interactions in Tianjin continue! Exchanging perspectives with President Putin and President Xi during the SCO Summit,” Modi posted, capturing the spirit of the event. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that Modi will address the plenary session outlining India’s approach to fostering cooperation under the SCO umbrella, followed by his bilateral discussions with Putin before departing for India.

Earlier, Modi held bilateral talks with Xi Jinping, where both leaders welcomed the positive momentum in ties since their last meeting at the BRICS Summit in Kazan in October 2024. The two reaffirmed that India and China are “development partners, not rivals,” highlighting the need for a stable relationship based on mutual respect and sensitivity.

Modi stressed the importance of peace along the border as essential for continued advancement in relations. The SCO, now comprising 10 member states including India, China, Russia, and others, serves as a pivotal platform for regional issues, with India playing an increasingly significant role since joining as a full member in 2017.