Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit China for the first time in seven years, signaling a possible shift in regional diplomacy. According to Indian government sources, Modi will travel to Beijing to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, beginning on August 31. This move comes as India faces increasing pressure in its trade relations with the United States.
Although the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has yet to release an official statement, the visit is seen as a step towards balancing India’s foreign policy in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment.
Tensions With the United States Grow
The visit to China comes at a time when India’s relationship with the US is under strain. Former President Donald Trump has imposed higher tariffs on Indian goods, placing India in a difficult economic position compared to other Asian nations.
Moreover, Trump has warned of additional penalties regarding India’s purchase of Russian oil, adding to the diplomatic pressure on New Delhi.
Rahul Gandhi Launches Strong Criticism
Back home, Congress Party leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized Prime Minister Modi for his silence on Trump’s actions. Gandhi accused Modi of failing to stand up to Washington’s aggressive stance, especially after Trump’s recent threats.
He further suggested a link between Modi’s inaction and ongoing US investigations against the Adani Group, a major business conglomerate with alleged ties to the Modi government. “Modi, Adani, and Russian oil deals might be financially connected, and that’s why the PM remains silent,” Gandhi stated.
This is the first time Rahul Gandhi has directly connected US tariff threats with the Adani Group, intensifying the political debate within India.
Foreign Minister to Visit Moscow
Adding another layer to India’s diplomatic outreach, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is also scheduled to visit Moscow. The move signals India’s intention to maintain strong ties with Russia, despite mounting Western pressure.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to China marks a critical moment in India’s foreign policy. As tensions with the United States escalate, India seems to be exploring stronger regional ties through platforms like the SCO and maintaining its energy partnerships with Russia. Meanwhile, domestic political challenges continue to question the Prime Minister’s silence
on sensitive international matters.
