Amidst a complex global landscape, Prime Minister Narendra Modi leveraged the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin on Sunday, August 31, 2025, to conduct a significant outreach to leaders representing the Global South. This move is viewed as a strategic effort to strengthen economic and strategic partnerships with nations across Central Asia, Eurasia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
PM Modi engaged in structured bilateral talks with the leader of Myanmar and held informal discussions with leaders from Vietnam, Laos, Nepal, Maldives, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Egypt. During his meeting with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance India places on its relationship with Myanmar, highlighting its role in India's "Neighborhood First," "Act East," and Indo-Pacific policies. The two leaders addressed various aspects of bilateral cooperation, including development partnerships, defense and security, border management, and trade. Modi stressed that advancements in connectivity projects would enhance interaction between the people of both nations, fostering regional cooperation and integration, aligning with India's Act East policy.
Notably, Modi's discussions with Central Asian and Eurasian leaders focused on identifying new export markets and harnessing natural resources. A potential visit by the Prime Minister of Nepal in September was also foreshadowed by his meeting with the Nepalese leader.
The SCO summit is taking place against a backdrop of global uncertainties, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, tensions in South Asia and the Asia Pacific, and trade wars. Some analysts believe the SCO conclave will serve as a platform for China to project itself as a stabilizing force, uniting the Global South to counterbalance the West. The summit in Tianjin saw the participation of over 20 foreign leaders and 10 heads of international organizations.
Rahul Shivshankar, an Indian news anchor, emphasized the importance of the SCO as a platform for the Global South to voice opinions and convey messages to Western developed economies. Chinese President Xi Jinping underscored the SCO's responsibility in safeguarding regional peace and stability and boosting development in a world facing increasing uncertainties. He expressed confidence that the summit would enhance unity and cooperation among member states, strengthen the Global South, and promote human civilization.
Xi Jinping acknowledged the changing global landscape, stating that it is the "right choice" for China and India, as ancient civilizations and members of the Global South, to be "friends and good neighbors". He used the metaphor of the "dragon and the elephant" to describe their partnership. He also noted that 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of China-India diplomatic relations, emphasizing the need for both nations to handle their relationship from a strategic and long-term perspective.
PM Modi affirmed India's commitment to fostering ties with China based on mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity. He recognized the link between the welfare of 2.8 billion people and bilateral cooperation between the two countries and noted the peace and stability along the border after the previous year's disengagement process.
The SCO summit has grown to encompass 26 nations, including 10 member states, two observer states, and 14 dialogue partners, representing approximately half the world's population and a quarter of the global GDP. The 2025 SCO Summit is expected to usher in a new phase of high-quality development for the organization, characterized by increased solidarity, coordination, dynamism, and productivity. Expected outcomes include a declaration, a 10-year development strategy, and documents strengthening cooperation in security, economy, and cultural exchange.
