Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are participating in a regional security summit in Tianjin, China, alongside eighteen other world leaders. This summit, part of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) gathering, marks Modi’s first visit to China in seven years. Prior to the summit, Modi is scheduled to hold discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Putin, an ally of China, arrived in Tianjin to a formal welcome. The backdrop of the summit includes ongoing trade tensions, notably the tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Indian imports due to India’s purchases of Russian oil, as well as potential sanctions against Putin amidst the Ukraine conflict.
The SCO comprises ten member states, including Pakistan and Iran, and includes sixteen dialogue partners and observers. While the summit primarily serves a symbolic purpose, it provides a platform for leaders to discuss shared concerns. This year, discussions may be influenced by the broader context of U.S. trade relations.
Established in 2001 by China, Russia, and four Central Asian nations, the SCO aims to counter Western influences such as NATO. Notably, this gathering is highlighted as the largest meeting since the organization’s inception. As a major event for Tianjin, the city has displayed promotional materials in anticipation of the summit.
Tianjin is experiencing significant crowds, with local spectators gathering to enjoy light shows in the vicinity during the summit. Streets are congested, complicating mobility, especially on the historic Jiefang Bridge. Authorities have implemented roadblocks for the motorcades of visiting officials, leading to delays for pedestrians. Taxi services have been suspended in the downtown area, but many locals remain eager to participate in this significant event. Police are advising residents of the densely populated city, with over 13 million inhabitants, to limit their travel and to shop locally for essentials. The summit occurs just days before a military parade commemorating 80 years since the conclusion of World War II.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyrwv0egzro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss