Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. Their meeting drew attention amid continued tensions between India and China after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. The SCO gathering took place in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also attended the summit. Before the main proceedings, leaders gathered for a group photograph. During that moment, Modi shook hands with Xi, Russian President Vladimir Putin and several other leaders.
Indian PM Modi meets Chinese Prez Xi, Russian Prez Putin, Iran Prez Masoud Pezeshkian at SCO summit pic.twitter.com/7tFEEMF3Cn
— The Bharat Post (@TheBharatPost__) September 1, 2026
Why The Galwan Context Matters
Relations between India and China changed sharply after the violent Galwan Valley clash in June 2020. Tensions between soldiers from both countries increased following that incident. Subsequently, military deployments along the border increased, while both sides held several rounds of discussions. Therefore, Modi and Xi meeting carries significance for their bilateral relationship. However, the supplied information does not mention any detailed conversation between them.
Shehbaz Sharif Was Present At The SCO Gathering
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also joined the SCO summit. He appeared alongside other leaders during the group photograph. However, available information does not mention any notable interaction between Modi and Sharif. India and Pakistan both hold full membership within the SCO. Through this platform, both countries participate in discussions involving regional security and economic cooperation.
What Is The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation?
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation began in 2001 with China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became full members in 2017. Iran joined during 2023, while Belarus entered the organisation in 2024. The group focuses mainly on regional security, economic cooperation and stronger connectivity among members.
Modi Also Meets Putin Over Russia-Ukraine War
Modi also met Russian President Vladimir Putin during the SCO summit. Their discussion included the Russia-Ukraine war and the need to end the conflict soon. Modi said every day of war harms humanity. He also said India backs every effort aimed at peace. Additionally, both leaders discussed cooperation involving trade, investment, energy and fertiliser security.
Why The SCO Matters For India
For India, the SCO provides a major platform for engagement with Central Asia, Russia and China. New Delhi uses this forum to discuss security, trade, energy and regional stability. Consequently, Modi’s meetings with Xi and Putin carry wider diplomatic significance. The developments also underline India’s engagement with multiple important regional powers.
