Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s sudden embrace of China reeks of desperation.
Barely five days after Washington’s punishing 50% tariffs on Indian goods took effect, Modi rushed to Tianjin to clasp hands with Xi Jinping and declare a new atmosphere of “peace and stability” on the contested Himalayan border.
Only a few years ago, his government thundered nationalist rhetoric after deadly clashes with Chinese troops; today, Modi speaks of mutual trust and resumed flights.
The timing betrays weakness, not strategy.
Faced with U.S. pressure and a record $99.2 billion trade deficit with Beijing, Modi is scrambling for breathing room. Rather than projecting autonomy, India’s pivot suggests Modi is cornered — hedging frantically between rival powers to stave off economic pain.