Modi at SCO: How Chinese social media reacts to PM’s first China visit in 7 years

PM Modi in China

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to China in seven years has set Chinese social media abuzz as he arrived in Tianjin for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, which begins Saturday.

The two-day summit, hosted by President Xi Jinping, will also see Russian President Vladimir Putin in attendance, signalling a high-profile diplomatic stage at a time of global trade tensions.

Hashtags related to Modi’s visit, including #ModiInChina and #IndiaChinaRelations, trended on Weibo soon after his arrival, with many users welcoming the outreach. Comments ranged from optimism about improved ties to curiosity about India’s balancing act amid escalating friction with the U.S.

“India is finally coming closer to its neighbours. A strong Asia means a better future,” wrote one user, while another remarked, “Modi meeting Xi shows both sides want peace after years of tension.”

This visit comes against the backdrop of a strained trade relationship between India and the U.S., after Washington imposed steep 50% tariffs on Indian goods and an additional 25% surcharge linked to Russian crude imports. Many Weibo users drew comparisons between China’s approach and U.S. protectionism, hailing Beijing as a “stable partner” in Asia.

Modi is expected to hold bilateral meetings with Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin during the summit. Photos and videos of his arrival and ceremonial welcome have been widely shared on Chinese platforms, where state media outlets highlighted the significance of India-China engagement after the 2020 Galwan clash and subsequent diplomatic freeze.

Several posts also referenced the broader geopolitical context, with some users saying, “Asia needs to unite in times of Western economic bullying.” Others pointed out that Modi’s visit marks “a turning point” for regional cooperation.

The SCO summit will focus on security, economic cooperation, and strengthening multilateral trade frameworks. Modi’s presence in Tianjin underscores India’s intent to recalibrate ties with Beijing while navigating its complex relationship with Washington.