BRICS Summit 2026: Xi Jinping Says China And India Are ‘Partners, Not Rivals’

Chinese President Xi Jinping said China and India are ‘partners, not rivals’ and ‘opportunities, not threats’ for each other’s development during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Saturday.

According to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Xi said his meetings with PM Modi over the past two years had helped guide China-India relations from a ‘restart’ towards further enhancement.

Institutional exchanges between the two countries have gradually resumed, while the scope of cooperation has expanded and bilateral trade has reached a new high.

President Xi said China and India have different national conditions but can learn from each other’s strengths, support one another and pursue mutual development. He stressed that the two countries, as the world’s two most populous nations and important members of the Global South, have significant responsibilities amid a complex international environment.

During the meeting, President Xi outlined four principles for strengthening China-India relations.

First, President Xi called for an objective and rational strategic understanding, saying both countries should view one another as partners and opportunities for development. Second, he advocated win-win cooperation, urging both sides to make development their greatest common interest and expand friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial collaboration. Third, he called for political wisdom based on mutual respect and understanding to address differences.

President Xi stressed the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border while allowing bilateral relations and border issues to progress in parallel.

President Xi urged China and India to support each other’s BRICS presidencies and strengthen cooperation through the UN, SCO and G20. He further called for joint efforts to address global challenges and promote peace, stability and development.

Also Read: BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi Hosts Vegan Gala Dinner Showcasing Indian Cuisine