Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit made headlines not just for policy discussions but also for his unique choice of transport. In a symbolic gesture, Modi arrived at the summit in the car often favored by Chinese President Xi Jinping and later departed in one associated with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
A Diplomatic Gesture Beyond Words
The unusual travel arrangement carried significant diplomatic weight. Arriving in Xi Jinping’s preferred vehicle underscored India’s willingness to engage constructively with China despite ongoing tensions along the border. Leaving in Putin’s car, meanwhile, reaffirmed India’s longstanding and historic ties with Russia, especially in defense and energy cooperation.
Balancing Relations at a Global Stage
The SCO summit has long served as a platform for regional powers to discuss security, economic development, and connectivity. By symbolically using both leaders’ cars, Modi signaled India’s commitment to maintaining a balanced approach in its foreign policy—engaging with both China and Russia while safeguarding national interests.
The Message to the World
Observers noted that such symbolic actions often resonate strongly in the world of diplomacy. They reflect India’s role as a balancing power, one that refuses to lean exclusively toward any single bloc. This gesture highlighted Modi’s strategy of multialignment—keeping strong ties with Russia, engaging cautiously with China, and at the same time, deepening partnerships with the West.
Conclusion
Beyond the summit’s official agenda, Modi’s arrival and departure highlighted India’s nuanced approach to international relations. The car diplomacy was a subtle but powerful reminder of India’s growing importance on the world stage.
