How Did PM Modi’s Visit to China Showcase His Diplomatic Prowess?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's visit to China is a strategic move to enhance India's global influence.
- The visit strengthens India's ties with the SCO.
- Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of self-reliance in defense.
- India's diplomatic approach prioritizes national interests.
- Critics, including Congress, raise concerns over the engagement with China.
New Delhi, Sep 1 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday for his trip to China, describing it as a crucial move to bolster India's diplomatic and strategic influence worldwide. Sharing insights on the social media platform X, Singh remarked,
“The successful journey of Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi to China stands as a testament to his diplomatic acumen and India's capacity to redefine and adjust geopolitical dynamics. This visit has enhanced India's connections with the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation). It will further solidify India’s standing among global nations. I extend my congratulations to PM Modi for this exceedingly productive visit to China.”
PM Modi traveled to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit after a two-day official engagement in Japan. His participation at the summit was perceived as a strategic maneuver to amplify India's influence in the Eurasian landscape and to strengthen diplomatic relationships with pivotal global actors.
On Saturday, Rajnath Singh underscored the significance of “aatmanirbharta” or self-reliance in the defense sector, while discussing India's evolving foreign policy. He reiterated that India's national interests would always be paramount.
“There are no permanent friends or enemies, only permanent interests,” Singh emphasized, highlighting India's pragmatic stance in global diplomacy. At a recent event, he also addressed the contemporary challenges in international trade, noting a drift towards protectionism among developed nations.
Singh's comments also served as a clear response to critics, including Congress leaders, who questioned the timing and optics surrounding PM Modi’s engagement with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
On Sunday, the Congress party criticized the Prime Minister, accusing him of not confronting China amid its ongoing “hostile actions” against India.
In this context, Rajnath Singh’s remarks can be interpreted as a strong rebuttal, reaffirming the government's strategy of seeking dialogue while remaining steadfast on fundamental national interests.
His emphasis on India’s diplomatic expertise and geopolitical balancing directly counters opposition narratives, framing the visit as a demonstration of strategic maturity rather than a sign of weakness.