Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in cordial discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday. This interaction conveyed a distinct message to Washington following President Donald Trump’s imposition of substantial tariffs on India last week.

During the gathering at the port city of Tianjin, Xi welcomed Modi, Putin, and other members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). This assembly is part of China’s long-term strategy to challenge the prevailing influence of the U.S. and NATO. Modi was seen exchanging friendly gestures and holding hands with both leaders, underscoring that India aspires to be a “partner” rather than a “rival” to China.

This marked Modi’s first visit to China in seven years. He also experienced a ride in Putin’s presidential limousine, reminiscent of Putin’s recent visit with Trump in Alaska. Following the summit, Modi and Putin conducted a separate bilateral discussion.

“Conversations with him are always insightful,” Modi wrote on X, posting a picture of himself with Putin.

Indian PM Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin  (Sputnik/Sergey Bobylev/Kremlin via REUTERS)

Modi’s interactions with Putin and Xi signify a broader cooling in relations between Washington and New Delhi. Recently, India’s national security advisor made a trip to Moscow, followed by the foreign minister’s visit last week, while Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi completed discussions in Delhi in mid-August. Before the year’s end, Modi is also anticipated to visit Moscow at Putin’s invitation.