The strategic positioning of India is causing consternation for the United States, as evidenced by its influence in various sectors, from economics to strategic partnerships, spanning from Japan to China. Notably, this comes as the US, under its current leadership, has imposed trade tariffs that have directly impacted India. Prime Minister Modi, after a visit to Japan, is now in China, setting the stage for a crucial meeting with Russian President Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
This event is an illustration of the 3D approach in diplomacy: Deals, Diplomacy, and Decisions. It also highlights India’s strategic maneuvers to address the trade tariffs imposed by the US. The SCO summit is scheduled in Tianjin, China. At the invitation of Xi Jinping, PM Modi is present, signifying that preparations are complete, awaiting the trilateral meeting involving Modi, Xi Jinping, and Putin.
This gathering may displease the US. The relationship between India, China, and Russia is expected to convey a significant message, especially to America. The agenda for the SCO summit is outlined in 10 key points:
1. The SCO summit will be held in China from August 31 to September 1.
2. The summit will take place in Tianjin, China.
3. PM Modi, Putin, and Jinping will attend.
4. PM Modi and Jinping will meet on Sunday.
5. Bilateral discussions will cover key issues.
6. Tariffs and trade are among the topics that may be discussed.
7. PM Modi and Putin will meet on September 1.
8. Putin made an important statement before the SCO summit.
9. Putin said SCO nations will jointly address global challenges.
10. Putin also noted that SCO countries will increase cooperation.
Challenging Trade Dominance
The summit aims to signal that the world is shifting away from business and trade dominance, with India, Russia, and China representing three of the world’s major powers. The key question is whether India and China will move forward on a path of friendship, setting aside past conflicts. For the US, this summit is not only a forum for agreements but also a demonstration of diplomatic strategy, conveying a lesson to President Trump. These deals, diplomacy, and decisions are particularly significant for the US.
India, Russia, and China seek to find alternative solutions to counter tariffs.
The US is expected to closely observe the SCO summit due to ongoing trade concerns. It’s possible that India, Russia, and China will explore ways to mitigate the impact of US tariffs. Although the US won’t be participating in the summit, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will be present. Beijing will be hosting two major events this week.
China has invited heads of state from over 26 countries.
The first event is the SCO summit, followed by a Victory Day parade in Beijing, which will include leaders from over 26 countries. China has invited heads of state and prime ministers from more than 26 countries to the Victory Day parade. The invited guests include Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.
China will showcase its military might in the parade
China’s parade will display its military strength with over 100 fighter jets, missiles, and tanks. The Victory Day parade commemorates the victory over Japan in World War II. India values its close ties with Japan. PM Modi’s visit to China follows a trip to Japan, which reflects his efforts to balance relations between the two countries.
Significant Agreements Between India and Japan
India and Japan have signed various significant agreements. PM Modi also highlighted Japan’s technological prowess and India’s talent pool during his visit. A tangible example of this was his journey on a Japanese bullet train alongside Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba.
Bullet Train: Important Details
The Japanese E10 Shinkansen bullet train operates at 320 kilometers per hour. Preparations are underway to introduce the Japanese E10 Shinkansen train in India. India and Japan are working together to deploy this advanced bullet train. It is planned to operate on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed corridor. The Japanese government is reportedly planning to gift India two bullet trains.
India-Japan’s Collaboration for Chandrayaan-5
The partnership between India and Japan for Chandrayaan-5 is another sign of their friendship. Agreements have been reached for Chandrayaan-5 to be launched using a Japanese rocket. The Indian Space Research Organization and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency will conduct a joint operation.
Regarding the major features of the Chandrayaan-5 mission, it is slated to be launched via the Japanese agency’s H3-24L launch vehicle. ISRO will also develop specific scientific instruments. Chandrayaan-5 is an upcoming lunar mission by the Indian Space Research Organization, which intends to accomplish a soft landing on the lunar surface and conduct scientific research.