Modi and Xi Kick Off Bilateral Talks at BRICS 2026, Eyeing Border Peace and Trade Balance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping to New Delhi on Tuesday, the first time the two leaders have met on Indian soil in seven years. A warm handshake set a relatively relaxed tone before they stepped into the bilateral session that ran parallel to the BRICS summit.

Modi thanked Xi for “constructive remarks” he made at the summit and reiterated India’s gratitude for China’s cooperation during India’s chairmanship of BRICS. “We have a chance now to talk about our shared interests,” the prime minister said, his voice punctuated by a hint of optimism that many observers have been yearning for.

Xi, for his part, spoke about a “larger global role” for both nations, emphasizing that despite different domestic realities, the two could learn from each other’s strengths. “Support each other, help each other succeed – that is what true partnership looks like,” he told the press, echoing a sentiment that sounded both diplomatic and, in moments, surprisingly personal.

The shadow of the 2024 Galwan Valley clash still lingered over the talks. Both sides agreed that any genuine reset must begin with stability along the disputed frontier. India pressed the point that the health of the overall relationship cannot be separated from what happens on the ground, especially in Arunachal Pradesh, a region India regards as integral while Beijing continues to assign its own names to key locations.

Trade was another hot‑button issue. India’s trade deficit with China has ballooned to a record‑high, hovering around $112 billion, a figure that has become a recurring theme in New Delhi’s economic circles. Modi hinted at seeking better market access for Indian goods and raised concerns over recent Chinese export bans on critical minerals and heavy‑equipment components.

Xi responded by underscoring China’s long‑term, strategic view of the bilateral relationship and promised to “work together for high‑quality development and stronger BRICS cooperation.” He also reminded the audience that he and Modi have met 21 times before, even recalling a birthday invitation to his hometown in Gujarat.

While concrete agreements were not announced on the spot, both leaders signalled a willingness to build a more robust framework for managing disputes. The meeting, observed by diplomats and journalists alike, may well be the first step toward a steadier, more predictable India‑China partnership.