New Delhi will host the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12 and 13 at Bharat Mandapam. During the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping may hold an important bilateral meeting. However, China will officially announce Xi’s participation on Thursday, September 10, at 12:30 pm. According to sources, both leaders may meet on September 12. This would become their first formal face-to-face bilateral discussion after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash.
India currently holds the BRICS presidency and will lead discussions during the two-day summit. Furthermore, leaders will discuss global and regional issues while strengthening cooperation within BRICS.
Xi Jinping’s India Visit After Seven Years
Xi Jinping’s expected India visit holds major importance for bilateral relations. The Chinese President may visit India after nearly seven years. However, the 2020 border dispute created significant tension between both nations.
After the Galwan clash, India and China increased military deployment along the border. Additionally, both countries saw restrictions and caution in trade and investment areas.
Meanwhile, recent months have shown efforts to improve relations gradually. Both nations have worked towards reducing border tensions and increasing dialogue. Moreover, they have attempted to remove some obstacles in economic relations.
However, mutual trust remains a major challenge between both countries.
LAC, Trade And Rare Minerals May Dominate Talks
The proposed Modi-Xi meeting may focus on maintaining peace along the Line of Actual Control. Additionally, discussions may cover trade, investment, direct flights and economic cooperation.
Both countries have continued talks through special representatives and border officials. Therefore, these discussions aim to reduce tensions and create stability in relations.
Furthermore, rare mineral supply may become an important topic during Xi Jinping’s visit. China plays a major role in the global rare earth mineral supply chain.
These minerals support electric vehicles, electronics, defence equipment, wind energy and modern technologies. India has depended on China for rare mineral products and magnets.
Therefore, both countries may discuss possible supply arrangements. However, official information has not confirmed any final agreement during the September 12 meeting.
